Estimate the criation (birth) date for your alpacas and track pregnancy progress.
Breeding Details
Average gestation is 342 days (approx. 11.5 months).
Criation Timeline
Estimated Due DateJul 28, 2027
Likely WindowJul 21 - Aug 10
Days Remaining342
Total Days342Days
Typical gestation ranges from 335 to 355 days.
Relative Fetal Weight Growth (%)
*Fetal growth accelerates significantly in the final 3 months.
About this calculator
Alpaca Reproduction
Alpacas have a remarkably long gestation period, averaging 342 days (about 11.5 months). It is not uncommon for pregnancies to last anywhere from 335 to over 360 days. The baby alpaca, called a 'cria', is almost always born during daylight hours—an evolutionary trait from their high-altitude Andean origins to avoid freezing night temperatures.
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Pro Tips
Daytime Births: 90% of alpacas give birth between 10 AM and 2 PM. Late afternoon births are rare and may need vet attention.
The Spit Test: Introduce a male to the female 2-3 weeks after breeding. If she spits at him, she is likely pregnant (progesterone level is high).
Signs of Labor: Look for frequent visits to the dung pile, humming, getting up and down, and isolation from the herd.
Cria Care: Ensure the cria nurses and receives colostrum within 6-8 hours for immunity.
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Fun Facts
"Alpacas are 'induced ovulators', meaning the physical act of breeding triggers the egg release."
"Mothers do not lick their newborns dry; they hum to them instead."
"A pregnant female is often called a 'hembra'."
"It is extremely rare for alpacas to have twins; single births are the norm."
"Crias are born with a membrane covering (epidermal membrane) to prevent drying out too fast, but the mom doesn't lick it off."
