Pack off an Alpaca

If you are looking for a quirky ethical gift, that is also fun and a little bit cuddly then why not give an Alpaca?

You can give an Alpaca on someone else's behalf through the charity Oxfam.

The Alpaca (Vicugna pacos) is a domesticated breed originally from South America. It resembles a sheep in appearance, but is larger and has a long erect neck.

Alpacas are kept in herds that graze on the level heights of the Andes of southern Peru, northern Bolivia, and northern Chile at an altitude of 3500 to 5000 meters above sea-level, throughout the year. Alpacas are considerably smaller than llamas and unlike them are not used as beasts of burden but are valued for their fibre (wool), used for making blankets and ponchos in South America, and sweaters, blankets, socks and coats in other parts of the world. The fibre comes in more than 22 natural colours.

Your gift will enable farmers to buy and look after these fluffy fellas, and make a living from their wool, with shears, shelter, food and fences.

You can give an Alpaca on someone else's behalf quickly and easily online at Oxfam Unwrapped. You just choose your Alpaca gift, and then a card with your personal message to be sent to the person on whose behalf you are giving the gift.

And if you want to give a little bit extra, then you can also add an animal care kit with all the food, water, vet care and shelter the 'funtastic' animals need - plus training for their owners – helping to make life better for them all!

To find out more about this Oxfam gift and how to give Oxfam's alternative gifts visit the Oxfam Unwrapped web site here