A successful breeding operation requires farm owner and managers to understand basic hembra reproductive physiology.  The goal of our breeding program should be to breed our females once and have them conceive.  Of course there will always be that handful of problem breeders, but if we can at least strive to achieve this, both our machos and our hembras will be happier and healthier.

Camelids are induced ovulators who have ovarian follicular waves all year long.  A typical cycle for an alpaca is 3-5 days of growth of the follicle on the ovary, 3-5 days of maturation of the follicle, and 3-5 days of regression of the follicle.  It is important to understand this cycle as well as be fluent in the language of behavior testing so that fewer, but timelier breedings may be performed.  In order for ovulation, and therefore conception to occur, it is critical that we breed the hembra in that 3-5 day period when the follicle is mature.  At this stage, the follicle is normally 8-12mm in size.  If we breed her in either the growth or the regression phase, she will not ovulate, will remain receptive, and will require more breedings and sustain more trauma to the uterus.

Although many farms do not routinely perform ultrasound examinations in order to determine follicular size, in most females, this mature phase can be elucidated by behavior testing.  Keeping in mind that our goal is to breed that hembra once, we need to wait until maximum receptivity before breeding.  A female that is ready to be bred should cush for the male within 30 to 60 seconds of being introduced.  Changes in hormone levels associated with the development of follicles on the ovaries means that females will be more or less receptive during the growth and regression phases of the wave.  Although these females may show some interest in the male, this is not the time to breed.  A female that stands there and thinks about if for a couple of minutes before cushing should not be bred.  Instead, come back the next day and behavior test again.  Take note of the time period: although it may seem overwhelming, for best results, behavior testing should be done daily and should be performed by the same person if possible.

You will find that together with a good understanding of normal hembra reproduction and a thorough process for behavior testing, you will be able to get more of your females pregnant on less breedings.  If you have any further questions regarding camelid reproduction, please feel free to contact the clinic.