Look what the stork brought!

Two unusual bundles of joy arrived over the last few days at the farm of Brendan Flynn from Tonnagh, Carrick-on-Shannon.
In what is thought to be a first for the county, Brendan welcomed the safe delivery of a black coloured baby alpaca, or cria as they are known, on Monday, May 18.

The little male, christened 'Arnie,' stands about 18 inches tall and is covered in a soft silky curled fleece. Alpacas originate from South America and are renowned for their soft fleece and gentle nature. The other new arrival on the Flynn farm was a miniature horse affectionately named 'Half Pint' who joined the herd on Sunday, May 17. Standing only 14 inches tall, he is expected to be no more than 28 inches at maturity.Miniature horses are gaining in popularity here in Ireland and the first Irish Miniature Stud Book, approved by the Department of Agriculture and The Irish Horse Board was recently launched (see www.mhpsi.com for further information).Brendan intends to keep Half Pint as a future herd stallion and he'll be joined by Arnie as a friend and guardian.

Pictured left, Brendan with Arnie and Half Pint Brendan Flynn, Tonnagh, Carrick-on-Shannon with a new born cria (alpaca) and miniature pony on his farm on Monday last. Photo by Willie Donnellan.

Published: Leitrim Observer 20 May 2009