Behavioural biology of South American domestic camelids: An overview from a welfare perspective

Resumen

South American domestic camelids (SADC) have played a key role in the culture, economy, food security and livelihoods of ancient and contemporary societies in Andean countries. This is especially due to the capacity of alpacas and llamas to produce fibre and meat under extreme geographic and climatic conditions. In addition, the breeding and use of SADC as fibre, meat, pet and sheep herding animals has become popular in Europe, North America and Oceania. However, research and scientific literature concerning the behaviour and welfare of both species is scarce, dispersed, and with little visibility compared to other species. Therefore, the objective of this literature review is to compile the international scientific literature on the most relevant aspects of the behaviour of llamas and alpacas, especially in terms of practical aspects which could be used to improve their welfare in the many production systems in which they are raised.