Residents of a Norwich care home have taken a walk on the wild side following a visit from a South American herd.

The Warren in Sprowston, which has 44 beds, was bustling with animal mischief on January 18 when a group of alpacas roamed around their home.

General manager Elizabeth Tacliad said: "Our residents have really enjoyed their unusual visitors.

Norwich Evening News: A resident at the Warren Care Home, Sprowston feeding an alpaca a carrot at a visit on January 18A resident at the Warren Care Home, Sprowston feeding an alpaca a carrot at a visit on January 18 (Image: The Warren)

"We knew that having the alpacas here would be a bit of fun for all our residents, especially as some find it difficult to go on many outings in our minibus

"We have seen the enjoyment and the therapeutic influence animals can have on people."

Studies have shown that being with animals reduces blood pressure and helps alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety.

It’s believed that vulnerable people benefit from the therapeutic qualities of alpacas.

And for these reasons, the gentle nature of alpacas makes the breed a good type of therapy animal.

Alpacas hail from South America and are typically kept in herds that graze on the level heights of the Andes of Southern Peru, Western Bolivia, Ecuador, and northern Chile at an altitude of 11,000ft to 16,000ft above sea level.

Norwich Evening News: The alpacas at Bumblebarn in SheringhamThe alpacas at Bumblebarn in Sheringham (Image: Bumblebarn)

Often confused with llamas - alpacas are actually considerably smaller - and unlike llamas, were not bred to be working animals.

Alpacas were bred specifically for their fibre - which is similar to sheep's wool, making knitting and woven items.

There are around 45,000 alpacas in the UK.

The Warren resident Janet, was delighted to meet the alpacas - from Bumblebarn glamping and alpaca farm in Sheringham. She said: "As a child I used to love all the animals on the nearby farm.

"Today was very enjoyable and it was wonderful that the animals were free to roam among us."

Norwich Evening News: Alpacas visited the Warren Care Home in Wroxham Road, SprowstonAlpacas visited the Warren Care Home in Wroxham Road, Sprowston (Image: The Warren)

The Warren also holds a free mobility class for the community fortnightly, with the next session on Monday, January 30 at 10am.

It will then open up as a free community cafe and warm hub on February 1 for those living nearby to come along for like-minded company and entertainment in a bid to combat loneliness.