Alpaca farm huge hit with children in York Township

YORK TWP. — Faye and Jeff Farley said they've always had a love for animals. Now, that love has turned into a profession at the Majestic Meadows Alpacas & Boutique, 4195 Abbeyville Road. Not only are there about 75 alpacas, but there are also two llamas — Harry and Llarry — along with goats, donkeys, pigs, kangaroos, sheep, goats, miniature horses, a camel and even a tortoise. "We love what we do," Faye said Monday. The Farleys have created an interactive petting farm for all ages. Admission is $7.50 per person (under 2 are free) The farm has expanded since its grand opening in 2018. There are an abundance of crias (baby alpacas), lambs and goats. "The goats are like puppies on steroids," Faye said. "They go crazy." The two miniature potbellied pigs — Petunia and Patrick — currently are housed with a pair of friendly red kangaroos. "Kids love pigs," Faye said. "Parents love kangaroos." The tortoise, Sheldon, is about 30 years old. "He makes his way outside (his shelter)," Faye said. "People come up and greet him. He eats grass all day." Despite the soaring temperatures Monday, people flocked to the farm. "Families are looking for something to do," Faye said. "We're open seven days a week year round (from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)." The Farleys purchased their alpacas in 1994 and their property three years later. Their two children, Brittany and Kurt, work at Majestic Meadows, along with some cousins. "They grew up here," Faye said. Majestic Meadows' parking lot attendant, Jerry Forstner, used to own Magical Farms in Litchfield Township. Forstner, 79, once had as many as 1,800 alpacas and ran one of the most prestigious alpaca breeding programs in North America. "My wife (Libby) didn't want to do it anymore," he said. "I did. So I'm here." Faye said Forstner founded Jiffy Lube. It takes about an hour to make it around the farm. "Some spend a half-hour with the goats," Faye said. She said the Farleys employ about 10 people. Reservations are required so they can space families and have enough help on hand. New, fun events are taking place at the farm, including goat yoga, alpaca and llama trekking and a Junior Farmer program, where kids can learn about each animal on the farm up close and personal. Participants will experience how to feed and care for all the different animals. The Alpaca Boutique is a 1,300-square-foot, two-story building that features quality items made from alpaca fiber as well as other alpaca-related items. Visitors experience the soft luxury of this natural fiber in everything from baby gifts, socks, teddy bears and more. Contact reporter Bob Finnan at (330) 721-4049 or rfinnan@medina-gazette.com.