The Suri is the rarest species in the Camelid family (llamas, alpacas, camels, guanacos, and vicunas), representing only 6% of the Camelid population worldwide.  Domesticated for over 5,000 years and found mainly in Peru, the Suri was revered by the Incas for its unique fiber qualities and reviled by the Spaniards who wanted to populate South America with sheep.  Suris endured years of attempted extermination, but eventually prevailed, and today, this fiber is prized by fashion houses around the world for its luster and drape.

The Suri is a breed of alpaca, but very different from those cute, fuzzy guys you see on TV.  The suri is distinguished by its long, lustrous and slick locks that lie parallel to the body.  This fiber has no crimp, as huacaya alpaca does, and thus, no loft or bulk.  The fiber characteristics create a very finely spun yarn that works well for lace weight knitting, weaving, and crafts such as needlepoint, cross stitch and embroidery.  Suris are also one of only two fiber species that offer such a wide array of natural colors including whites, fawns, browns, blacks, greys, and multis totaling 21 recognized colors in all.

Suris are a manageable size at 120 - 200 lbs.  They are typically sheared once a year, although some may be sheared more frequently.  They have a fine fleece, with micron counts ranging typically from 18 - 26 microns, depending on the age and quality of the animal.  Suris like to be together, so a minimum of two are required for ownership.  One acre of grass can typically feed six to seven adults and they can be supplemented with hay and/or grain.  Suris do not require any grooming.

If you have an interest in working with the fiber, we are always eager to send you a sample ($2.50 plus shipping for two ounces of raw fiber, or $4.00 plus shipping for one ounce of roving).  If you are interested in purchasing suris, check out our "Suris for Sale" tab or give us a call - we always love visitors!

Dedicated to the development and promotion of U.S. suri fiber.

Salt River Mills
7200 Waterman Ave.
St. Louis, MO  63130
314-440-1627
info@saltrivermills.com