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Alpacas are known for their soft, lush wool

Years ago, Glenda and Tim Shotter attended the Canadian Western Agribition in Regina.

As they strolled past the livestock, they came across the alpacas, which sparked an interest with Glenda.

Shotter also attended the trade show and purchased a pair of alpaca mitts. It was then that Shotter was hooked.

In 2011, Shotter began to purchase her registered alpacas for their farm northwest of Creelman, where she lives with her husband Tim and four sons.

There are two kinds of alpacas. Suri produce a longer, cylindrical locks, similar to dreadlocks. The huacaya produces curly, dense and soft wool. Shotter owns huacaya alpacas.

Shotter is very particular when she purchases livestock. They need to be the right size and have a great temperament. Their genetics need to be strong and have excellent fiber.

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Feeding Faba Bean to Pigs - Dr. Eduardo Beltranena

Video: Feeding Faba Bean to Pigs - Dr. Eduardo Beltranena


In this special rerun episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Eduardo Beltranena from North Carolina State University explains how faba beans can be used in pig diets as a source of both starch and protein. He discusses environmental benefits, inclusion rates, frost-damaged beans, tannin concerns, cultivar selection, and how producers can compare faba beans against cereals and protein meals for cost-effective feeding. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Faba beans provide both starch and protein, competing directly with cereals in swine diets."

Meet the guest: Dr. Eduardo Beltranena / eduardo-beltranena-61660a1b2 is an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist at North Carolina State University. He holds a Ph.D. in nutrition and reproduction interactions from the University of Alberta and has worked across swine production, feed industry nutrition, contract research, government research, teaching, and extension. His work focuses on swine nutrition, regional feedstuffs, and practical feed formulation. Learn more from Dr. Eduardo Beltranena on The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, available on all major platforms.