Is it the Pimms?

Like everyone else we are waiting for alpacas to unpack.
We are watching and waiting, with good reason.
Regular readers may remember that we carried most of our girls through the winter of 2008 empty as our births were getting later and later. We decided to reset the birthing 'clock'. It meant we missed out on some cria last year (hence the tiny, but mighty, show team) but we think it was worth it.
This year we should be done and dusted by the end of June. As a result we could have crias popping out at any time.
We also have to note that we have never had an alpaca go longer than 345 days. I know, weird isn't it. I see that other bloggers (Debbie and Barbara in particular) are going 'long'. My theory which is worth nothing is that if you are going to breed alpacas 'Oop North' you must expect them to stay in as long as they possibly can! Down here in the soft, shandy drinking south they can't wait to get out and tuck into a canape or two before an evening glass of Pimms!

I know they will probably all go for 400 days plus now that I have said that but it is a fact, 345 days is our longest gestation in 5 years of breeding. It was Lily with Amelie, if you're interested.

Anyway, Lily and Bannock have now hit 330 days and Dee is on 338. Bobby gave birth to Ruby May at 338 days and she weighed in at 9.75 kilos, so we are expecting another cria soooooooon!

Here is the munchkin with her Mum today. She weighed in at 12 kilo's this morning so has done well in her first week.

Ruby was very interested in this nettle and studied it for some time, I think she may sketch it later.

Whilst I was out there I was accompanied by some of the non alpaca members of the herd. Kira, who is now getting rather hefty and possesses the most enormous ears was hunting me down!

And last but not least was Angus, sporting a smart new haircut, riding 'shotgun' on his bike.

Maybe tomorrow, at Pimms O'clock!