alpacas: Re: [AlpacaTalk] Fly Strike

I am very interested in the genetics of alpacas.

I do agree that there is a higher incidence of BEW from breedings between white and grey alpacas. And there is a higher incidence of deaf animals also being BEW.

But, a noted alpaca breeder with many letters after his name claims that only white alpacas have blue eyes. Other colors do not produce blue eyes. He also claims that white, in alpacas, is always dominant. Well, I have proof otherwise, on both counts. I also may have proof that suri fleece is always a dominant trait. but time will tell on that.

Heather

Heather Zeleny

White Lotus Alpacas

Oregon

Holistic Farm and Elite Fleece

http://www.whitelotusalpacas.com

http://whitelotus.openherd.com

On Oct 6, 2010, at 9:06 PM, Jody Ehler wrote:

Hi Jim

I had a blue eyed white boy born this summer and I am sure he is deaf. Sometimes I wonder because he is so robust and seems to be the first to quote "hear a truck coming down the road"! I think he feels the vibration of the ground and so is more alert than the non deaf!! He is very healthy, but I wont use him for breeding so I have a teacher who wants just a couple boys for pets and he has a good home where he will be watched after closely! I don't think all have to be deaf but is a high probability? It has something to do with the hairs forming in the inner ear I think? I know we have a few out there that are into the genetics on these critters who may chime in! I am anxious to hear what is known about this. Of course my white boy will probably have the best fleece too! Just watch closely and see if you can sneak up behind him and whistle or holler when he is not looking at you. You should be able to tell soon enough. Hope he isn't deaf, but it's not the end of the world! He will do just fine!

Take care!

Jody Ehler
Solon, IA 52333
J & J Alpacas
Check out our adorable alpacas!
www.jandjalpacas.com

To: AlpacaTalk@yahoogroups.com
From: jimg2312@yahoo.com
Date: Thu, 7 Oct 2010 01:38:03 +0000
Subject: [AlpacaTalk] Fly Strike

I just wanted to thank everyone for all the help with my new cria when I discovered he had a horrible fly strike. Everyone gave me wonderful advice. I lost a little sleep and the little cria had many many many exams but the fly spray worked and keep them from coming back.
Now who can tell be about blue eye white alpacas. I have read tons of material but here is my concern. He is PINK skinned. Will he sunburn? Do I need to do anything about that? His eyes don't seem to be overly sensitive to light but are they? Is deafness only possible or is it probable?

Jim

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