Alpaca Keeping in Hungary: The First Nationwide Survey

Alpacas have become increasingly popular as farm and companion animals in many countries and were introduced in Hungary approximately 15 years ago. However, reliable data on their population size and management practices have remained limited. Therefore, this study aimed to provide the first nationwide overview of alpaca keeping in Hungary. An anonymous Google Forms-based questionnaire comprising 55 questions was used to collect data on farm characteristics, herd size, husbandry practices, and animal health management. A total of 53 valid responses were analyzed. The results indicated that approximately 260 alpacas are currently kept in Hungary, with most herds being small and typically consisting of 1-5 animals. Most owners planned to expand their herds, primarily through domestic breeding or purchases; however, only a minority considered alpaca keeping economically profitable. Responses related to quarantine, veterinary access, and disease management suggested limited knowledge of biosecurity and animal health. While most owners reported high levels of trust in veterinarians, many had difficulty accessing specialists with expertise in alpacas. In conclusion, alpaca keeping in Hungary is a growing but still small-scale sector. Improving owner education and strengthening professional support may enhance animal welfare and reduce health risks, thereby supporting the One Health approach.