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Review Article

The impact of breeding and farming conditions on the welfare of alpacas (Vicugna pacos)

Bogumiła Pilarczyk ¹ , Renata Pilarczyk ², Piotr Sablik ²

¹ West Pomeranian University of Technology, Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland

²West Pomeranian University of Technology, Department of Ruminant Science, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland

1. Acta Sci. Pol. Zootechnica, 22(3), 2023, 3‒8
2. DOI: 10.21005/asp.2023.22.3.01

Abstract. The welfare of alpacas in farming varies and is influenced by various factors, including environmental conditions, nutrition, interactions with humans, and grooming and breeding practices. It is crucial to provide adequate space for the animals both indoors and in outdoor areas due to their herd-oriented nature. Interactions with humans play a significant role in alpaca farming. Proper handling and gentle treatment positively affect their behavior. However, excessive contact at a young age may lead to undesirable behaviors such as Berserker syndrome. Processes such as birthing, weaning, shearing, as well as other breeding practices, impact the welfare of alpacas. Understanding the animal natural needs and minimizing stress are essential to providing optimal living conditions for them.

Keywords: Alpacas (Vicugna pacos), welfare, environment, human interaction