One of the benefits of owning alpaca is their hatred of predators (foxes, cats and unfamiliar dogs). They use their size, speed, stomping and spitting ability to chase a predator out of their territory. As far as an alapca is concerned they own the paddock and everything in it. That includes sheep. goats or poultry that run with them.
The use of alpaca to protect lambing ewes, kidding goats and poultry has become a proven form of sound stock management.
Herd guards are chosen based on their natural guarding ability and are usually displaying these traits at around 18months to 2 years of age.
Auravale currently have a small number of adult males who will make excellent herd guards of your goats, sheep or chickens. Two animals in particular Charo and Accora, see more details under Sales/Pets/Guardians exhibit excellent guarding skills. Both are always alert and watchful of what is happening in the paddock. Coupled with a less dominant alpaca we are confident they will do an excellent job in protecting your herds.
Two alpcas out with a herd of up to 200 sheep or goats will dramatically decrease the loss of kids and lambs to foxes.
We offer:
- Castrated males that have been drenched, vaccinated and are in excellent health
- Guaranteed to work. Alpaca should be introduced to your flock 4-6 weeks ahead of lambing/kidding.
- Delivery within Victoria
- Full back up service
Ongoing care of alpacas:
- Internal Parasites: Alpaca need to be drenched as often as the animals they run with. Injectable cattle drench or oral sheep drench is suitable, dosage is based on weight. Do not use Pour On
- Vaccination: Alpaca should be vaccinated against clostridial disease. Vaccinations are given annually just under the skin
- Shearing: Annually, we recommend using an experienced alpaca shearer
- Toe Nail Trimming: Alpaca feet should be inspected when handling and trimmed as required. The toe nails grow the most during the winter months.
- Diet: Alpacas are happy living on grass, only needing additional feed when the season dictates. In the dead of winter and middle of summer when the quality and quantity of grass drops off consider feeding out hay or grain.
- Water: Ensure clean drinking water is available at all times.
- Shelter: Shedding is not necessary if there are trees providing shelter. Alpacas are prone to skin problems if left to stand in mud or wet paddocks for prolonged periods just like other livestock.
