Alpacas and llamas originate from high altitude climates in South America. They are hardy, intelligent and have an innate dislike of canids (e.g. dogs and foxes). Their hostility towards dogs, coupled with strong herding behaviours, makes them suitable for use as livestock guardians.
The species they protect does not seem to matter - they will even defend chooks! Once llamas and alpacas have established a paddock as ‘their territory’ and have bonded with the livestock or poultry, they work hard to ensure the paddock stays clear of canids.
Considering employing an alpaca or llama to defend your flock? Here are a few things you should know:
• Alpacas & llamas don’t fully develop their protective instinct until 18 months of age
• Gelding alpacas and llamas is necessary to prevent them mounting ewes
• Ideally introduce them to the flock 6 weeks before lambing so they have time to settle and bond
• Use between 1 and 3 animals per flock of sheep. Alpacas and llamas tend to form social species groups with any more than 3, and won’t protect
• Alpacas and llamas need a drenching regime the same as the sheep flock, which is ideally executed based on faecal egg counts
• Vaccination is required every 6 months with 5-in-1
• They require Vitamin D injections. This is done more frequently in crias, and generally just once in July for adults
For any questions about the health of your alpacas and llamas, please give us a call.
|