Different responses of free-ranging wild guanacos (Lama guanicoe) to shearing operations: implications for better management practices in wildlife exploitation

TARABORELLI, P.; MOSCA TORRES, M.E.; GREGORIO, P.F.; MORENO, P.; RAGO, M.V.; PANEBIANCO, A.; SCHROEDER, N.M.; OVEJERO, R.; CARMANCHAHI, P.

ANIMAL WELFARE

UNIV FEDERATION ANIMAL WELFARE

Año: 2017 vol. 26 p. 49 - 58

0962-7286

South America, free-ranging, wild guanacos (Lama guanicoe) are exploited for fibre by local people. This activityincludes the capture and handling of animals which can adversely affect their behaviour and physiology. This study investigated thebehavioural and physiological responses of guanacos to shearing and handling activities in order to obtain a better picture of thewelfare state of individuals. Parameters that were assessed consisted of: time enclosed; handling time; sex; age; and vital signs (heartbeat frequency per minute, respiratory rate per minute, body temperature and body condition). Blood samples were also collectedto measure serum cortisol levels and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratios. Frequencies of spitting, kicking, escape attempts and vocalisationswere recorded as behaviours considered indicative of stress. Our results showed that stress behaviour frequencies were higherwith increased handling time, whereas serum cortisol and N/L levels were higher when body condition scores were low. Handlingtime should be kept as short as possible to minimise individual´s stress levels, particularly when body condition is low. Stressbehaviour rates and serum cortisol levels were higher in juvenile compared to adult guanacos. Finally, both physiological measuresof stress ? serum cortisol concentrations and N/L ratios ? were higher during the management activities of 2010 than in 2009,which may have been as a result of more inclement weather in 2010. When managing guanacos, it is important to consider bothanimal traits and previous environmental conditions and to avoid shearing juveniles and individuals with poor body condition scoresif weather conditions are severe. These management recommendations are likely to improve animal