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We have
two male Alpacas, both about three years old. Both from the
same father, but different mothers. We've had them since
they've been crias. Their names are Ghandi and Vesper, and both
have been neutered. Also, both are Huacayas. We just
recently bought a two year old Suri, Adagio, who also has
been neutered. Now here is the problem for which my wife,
Bonnie and I are seeking your wisdom.
Ghandi
basically "hawks" Adagio. Wherever Adagio goes, Ghandi goes.
There was some initial tussling, but that has for the most part
settled down. On occasion, Ghandi will really go after Adagio
and pull at his fur. Adagio, does however, fight back. We have
a 10 X 20 small shelter with an attached lean-to for all three.
When Adagio goes in to feed, Ghandi will follow him in, doesn't
really bother him, but again, he's hawking him.
Is there a
way that we can get Ghandi to, basically, "live and let live"?
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Thanks for your question. The bottom line is that
we can't really change the behavior of the animals
unless they are on a lead rope or unless you want to
move into the barn with them and play referee... we
can only change their environment.
Based on your description it sounds to me as if
there is nothing really untoward going on and the
boys will work it out. Adagio will deal with
Ghandi if and when he feels like he needs to. As
long as all the boys can get their fair share of
food, water and shelter I think you can just let
things be. If you feel like you do want to change
the dynamics there are several things you can do:
You could separate them (I don't recommend this; I
think regardless of the dynamics they are happier in
a group); you could expand their pasture or allow
them access to a different or bigger area; you could
add another animal; you could change where and how
you feed them. It doesn't sound to me, though, that
you really have a problem. Animals like people are
not nice to each other all the time and the truth of
the matter is that each individual must sometimes
cope on their own. I do interfere when a bigger
animal is picking on a little one or when animals
are ganging up on each other and it becomes truly
dangerous. But for the most part I think they deal
with conflict better themselves.
Good luck.
Marty
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