SPECTRAL ANALYSIS OF BIOACOUSTIC STRESS MARKERS IN TRANSPORTED ALPACAS

Alpacas (Vicugna pacos) are increasingly transported for breeding, trade, or research purposes, often experiencing elevated physiological and psychological stress. This study explores the use of bioacoustic spectral analysis to identify stress markers in alpacas during transport. By recording vocalizations pre- and post-transport and analyzing frequency distribution and amplitude shifts, we identified distinct acoustic patterns correlating with stress responses. Findings suggest spectral energy increases in low- and mid-frequency bands are potential indicators of transport-induced stress.