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WINTER WEARBy Cathy Spalding© During our more severe winter temperatures, some alpacas and llamas have difficulty keeping warm. Gradual changes in seasons and temperature are seemingly handled more easily than those that are sudden and abrupt. Sudden changes in weather and temperature do, however, occur with sprawled bodies soaking up the sun one day and the very next bringing on endless hours of stinging sleet. Many alpacas and llamas seem to actually prefer to be out in inclement weather as opposed to being locked in an enclosed sheltered area. We have noticed the difference in choice can depend upon how the particular weather affects their facial area. Overall body fiber offers a level of protection from the weather. However, they are not normally as well protected about the face - particularly the eyes. Unrelenting rains, ice pellets and harsh winds can often send even the hardiest soul off in search of shelter. In weather extremes, it is key to provide the best opportunities possible to assist each alpaca and llama in their ability to regulate their body temperature. Adequate shelter, windbreaks, bedding, feed/nutrition, fresh water and overall good health are a must for each animal. Age and other conditions can compromise the ability to adequately regulate body temperature. The most obvious sign that an animal is having difficulty regulating body temperature is shivering. If one is shivering, they are cold and need warmer conditions. There are a number of creative and clever ways folks have provided their alpacas and llamas a warm reprieve from harsher weather. While an enclosed barn would seem top of the line ideal, there are many other creative ways to provide a warm and cozy area. Windbreaks and half walls can be made for three sided shelters using bales of straw placed across a portion of the open side. Bales of straw are also useful for blocking drafty areas such as under stall doors. Sheets of plywood or tarps can be installed along the edges of an overhang to provide more protection under those areas. Deep bedding provides a barrier between bodies and the colder flooring. In some areas, owners do not regularly replace the bedding during the winter period but rather just add new bedding each time fresh bedding is needed. Heat is generated from the lower layers of composting manure and straw. Assisting an alpaca or llama having difficulty by having them wear a coat or blanket can make the significant difference. An alpaca or llama coat and/or blanket can be purchased from a variety of vendors. They are offered in varying sizes from cria to adult and in a vast array of styles, colors and patterns. A web search should yield a wide range of available winter wear. Both the adult alpaca and llama winter coat and sleeping bag shown in these photos are available from Bobra Goldsmith at Rocky Mountain Llamas. Photos are shown with permission. |
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There are also a number of very inexpensive and quite creative ways to come up with fashionable alpaca and llama winter wear:
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