Alpaki – nowy gatunek hodowlany w Polsce. Część IV. Poród i opieka nad noworodkiem

Abstract

Due to the fact that the reproductive physiology of camelids differs from other farm animals, the authors decided to present the specificity of alpacas reproduction. The first part presented general knowledge about sexual dimorphism, conception and the course of pregnancy. The second part of the "Reproduction" describes delivery and neonatal care. Breeding females in good condition should give cria every or nearly every year. In alpacas, early embryonic death and early fetal death are a significant problem, therefore early pregnancy diagnosis should be confirmed by repeated ultrasound examination around 40-50 days of pregnancy and 80-90 days of pregnancy. Most parturitions take place between spring and autumn. Due to the anatomical structure of the fetus (exceptionally long neck and limbs), obstacles to parturitions often occur, therefore it is advisable to monitor the perinatal period and delivery using cameras. In the first hours after birth, the breeder should observe that the cria has standed its feet, consumed the colostrum and released meconium. The mammary glands of the female secrete colostrum 24 hours after delivery, so its supply to neonatal is very important. The survival of cria depends largely on conditions in the first few days after delivery.