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IAC Home > Alpaca Resource Center > Breeder's Tips
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Birthing Your Cria
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| Birth is a miracle. I have tried to understand how a female begins with an egg and nurtures life to the point of birth. What is that spark that transfers the responsibility for being from the mother to her newborn? It is easy to understand the mechanics of development and finally birth but that magic moment of vigor and independence that begins with the first breath is still Mother Nature's mystery. Nothing is more exciting.The best advice I can give you about birthing cria is do not over react. Most cria are born without any assistance. At least 95% of all births occur without intervention.In fact premature action by the alpaca's owner can complicate what would otherwise be a normal birth. The problems that do occur are most often simple and easily solved.
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PREPARING FOR BIRTH
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Females should be separated from males at least two months before birth and her last cria should be weaned at least five months before birth.
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PROBLEM BIRTHS
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Alpaca births are relatively problem free. About 5% of births may encounter problems, maybe less. But in any case if you are in the alpaca business long enough you will need to assist a mother with the birthing process.
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THE CLUES THAT A CRIA IS DUE
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Every parent can remember the time leading up to his or her first baby’s birth. A lot of you have heard of false labor and maybe a few of you have taken a dry run to the hospital.
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THE STAGES OF LABOR
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The female will begin with mild contractions. She will often linger, straining over the dung pile and may lie down, roll, stand up and then lay down again.
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WHAT TO DO ABOUT A DYSTOCIA
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The first thing you need to decide is whether you are going to solve the problem or call the veterinarian. Many alpaca breeders are adept at delivering cria who begin the process out of position.
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Alpaca breeders from across the country share their secrets. Learn about training tips, marketing, fencing, showing and selling your alpacas. Better yet submit your own tips and tricks.
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