3 minute read
PEEKA RANCH
from Burton, Texas
ALPACAS ENJOY 60-ACRE RANCH IN BURTON, VISITORS WELCOME
by Michelle Banse Stokes, photography by Emily Henderson
The superior quality of alpaca fiber has long been recognized for its strength, warmth and incredible softness. In addition to the superior fiber quality, alpacas also bring real joy to people as naturally gentle creatures. At Peeka Ranch, LaNell McMahon’s love and understanding of her herd is evident in the way she talks about them and shares them with visitors to her and her husband’s 60-acre ranch.
People are welcome to come out and feed them. “
“People are welcome to come out and feed them,” said LaNell. “There is an admission fee and visits are scheduled by appointment only. We’ve had school groups, senior groups, church and ladies groups, as well as families and individuals. This weekend we had two scout troops visit.” Currently Peeka Ranch is home to 68 alpacas in various colors and ages, with little ones joining the herd all the time.
“There was one born yesterday,” shared LaNell. “A medium fawn female. We’re thrilled to report that she’s doing great.”
La Nell and her husband, Philip, haven’t always been alpaca ranchers. The McMahon’s love for them was discovered while on vacation in New Hampshire over 15 years ago.
“We were visiting my brother-in-law and sister-in-law,” added LaNell. “She got started with alpaca fiber and one of her friends raised them. We went over to pick up yarn and I was very intrigued by them. They’re very laid back and curious and they love kids. Alpacas all have their own personalities.”
Alpaca fleece is the natural fiber harvested from an alpaca. They are typically shorn once a year in the spring. The alpaca has a very fine and light fleece. It does not retain water, is a thermal insulator even when wet and can resist solar radiation effectively. These characteristics guarantee the alpacas an appropriate coat to protect against extreme changes of temperature. This fiber offers the same protection to people.
“It contains no oils and is hypoallergenic,” said LaNell. “It is also water resistant and flame retardant.”
Peeka Ranch is located at 13350 FM 389 in Burton and online at www.peekaranch.com. Visitors are reminded that appointments are required before visiting.
We’ve got you covered
Store Hours Monday-Friday 6am-9pm Saturday 7am-9pm
Sunday 9am-6pm Kitchen Hours
Monday-Friday 6am-8pm Saturday 7am-8pm Sunday 11am-2pm
Daily Lunch Specials Grab & Go Sandwiches & Salads Single Cold Beer $2.50 Call Ahead To Place Your Order 979-289-0020 979-289-0040
12400 FM 390 West, Burton, Texas 77835 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram @burtonshortstop1 www.burtonshortstop.com
TWO RENTALS AVAILABLE - SLEEPS UP TO 14 GUESTS Rented by the room during the Round Top Antique Show. Pigs Fly & Co. Guest House 12410 East Texas Street, Burton, Texas 77835 512.423.1963 | tricia@highcottonhomedesign.com
Photos by Gabri
Gabri Ripple Means
979.277.8687
photosbygabri@gmail.com
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