A bustling of fur, people, alpacas and an array of odors; this was the scene of MOPACA, the alpaca convention at the American Royale Corral.

On Saturday and Sunday, April 1 and 2, alpaca ranchers from across the Midwest gathered in Kansas City, Mo. to trade, sell and show alpacas. In addition, there were many vendors selling clothing made of alpaca fur, alpaca yarn, and tools for caring for alpacas.

While at the alpaca convention, I learned many new things about alpacas; however, I still do not know what the differences between alpacas and llamas are.

Many students went to the alpaca convention for a variety of reasons. Sophomore Stephen Luancing went for the experience.

“I saw a lot of alpacas with multiple colors. I also found this really nice alpaca hat. I think they should have more alpaca conventions, and I wish I could buy an alpaca,” Luancing said. “Overall, it was just a unique and cool experience, and I think more people should have the opportunity to be with alpacas.”

Sophomore Matthew Miller decided to go to the convention to get extra credit for one of his classes.

“I thought it was a very well-organized convention, and the alpacas and alpaca owners were all very nice,” Miller said, “I felt kind of bad that the alpacas were there surrounded by merchandise made of alpaca, but it was still a fun experience.”

I went to the alpaca convention because I love animals and I could not pass up the opportunity to see over 400 live alpacas. The fact that I also get extra credit for going is simply an added bonus.

While I was at the convention, I learned that Alpacas are not killed for their fur but instead it is sheared when it gets long enough. I also learned from a nice alpaca fur vendor that alpacas are native to the mountains of Peru and the Peruvians were the first to domesticate them and use their fur.