AlpacaConnect

Hi there,
I understand bracken fern is toxic to livestock. In my experience, alpacas will avoid the fern if they have plenty of other tasty pasture plants/ hay to eat. Before my alpacas arrived, I cleared our fields of bracken fern, simply by pulling out the leaves - only a few sprigs come up now, and the alpacas eat around them. I'd suggest that you pull these plants out, monitor for their regrowth and make sure your alpacas have other food plants available.
Hope this helps.
B.

Yes, it is toxic and also is a popular hang-out for deer ticks. The new fronds are the most toxic, but I've never seen any animals eating them (horses, cattle or alpacas).

Thank you for your replies,
I’ll let my alpacas into the back field, but I think I will attempt to clear out most of the ferns as the thought of ticks makes my skin crawl!

Bracken Fern is a cumulative toxin that will build up in the alpcas over time. It may not be the first plant they will eat put alpacas will eat it especially the new young fronds. It is best to remove all Bracken Fern from your pastures and regularly walk the pastures and remove any new fronds as they appear. You must pull up the entire plant including the root or it will just put out a new frond.

Simon:
Interested in your problem, could you please call- Stan 303-523-9716 email sdunihue@dunihue.com.