Alternative livestock pt. 3

Where did camelids originate

north america

What are 4 types of South American camelids

llama, alpaca, vicuna, guanaco

How many stomach chambers do camelids have

3 (C1, C2, C3)

What kind of breathers are camelids

primarily nasal breathers

What is the main use of llamas

• pack animals

• fiber

• meat

• guard animals

How much fleece do alpacas produce per year

~4 lbs

What is the texture of huacaya alpaca fleece

short, dense fleece

What is the texture of suri alpaca fleece

long, silky, dreadlock-like fleece

How long is the camelid gestation period

~11.5 months (354 days average)

What ovulation type are camelids

induced ovulators

What is the birthing position in camelids

standing

When do camelids usually delivery their babies

morning hours

What is a cria

a baby camelid

What causes berserk male syndrome

young males imprint on humans and become dangerous when mature

What are fighting teeth

sharp teeth in males to fight with, they’re filed down in farms to prevent injury

If a camelid is stressed during a vet visit, and there are no other camelid’s in the area, what should you do? And why?

Camelids are herd animals, so if you simply just bring a mirror out to get the camelid’s reflection, they will come out to the mirror and feel more comfortable, thinking they’re with another camelid.

Ways of handling and retraining camelids

• halter (don’t suffocate them)

• neck then chin/jaw hold

• Physical structures

• Ear hold

• spit rag

• cast

• sedate

• lure with food

• Avoid eye contact

When is surgical castration performed on male camelids

> 18-24 months of age

When do six fighting teeth erupt

18-36 months

Which uterine horn are most pregnancies carried in

over 95% in the left horn

What position are camelids in when breeding

sternal recumbency (cush)

How long does breeding last for

30 minutes (male orgles)

What order are camelids in

artiodactyla

What suborder are camelids from

tylopoda

How long do red blood cells live in camelids

more 200 days

What kind of red blood cells do camelids have

elliptical

What are elliptical red blood cells

elongated or oval shaped

Why do camelids havve elliptical red blood cells

To help them carry and deliver oxygen more efficiently throughout their bodies and gives them a better resistance from dehydrated