- Mange is a mite which burrows under the skin causing itching. Mange mite infection can appear and spread extremely rapidly. The skin will first appear red and blotchy, and will then become extremely dry and crusty. Main initial areas of infection are the ears, and at the tops of the legs (front and back), the belly area and under the tail. When the area infected is around the teats it can make feeding a cria difficult, painful or impossible for the dam. more »
- Skin disease in alpacas can be due to a number of different causes including bacteria, fungi, allergies, nutritional problems and various parasites including lice and mites. Of the various parasitic skin diseases, mite infestations are one of the most common and have the most detrimental impact on animal welfare and fibre quality. more »
- Prior to this discussion getting fully underway we need to realize that there are many types of mites, four of which are most prevalent and each carrying there own level of severity of condition and treatment. Please understand, I am not an Acarologist (one who studies ticks and mites) but an Alpaca rancher who has encountered mites and done the research to understand the condition. more »
- Every now and then, on an alpaca farm somewhere in Australia, the day brings an unexpected arrival, a new suri cria ... with spots! When that cria has two solid coloured parents, it is more of a surprise. more »
- Without ignoring breed standards and common sense, breeders can apply their own interpretations and tastes, creating the healthy diversity necessary for the ultimate survival of the species. I realize that I’ve made this point before – but it’s an important one and bears repeating. No matter what your own personal vision or dream is, before you decide to embrace a trend, ask yourself: “Is it fad or function?” more »