PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS ON FOOD HAWITS OF GERENUK IN TSAVO NATIONAL PARK, KENYA

摘要: Summary In the context of widespread vegetation changes in Tsavo National Park, food habits gerenuk are being investigated; present paper gives an account results obtained during first year study. Feeding free-ranging was observed from a landrover two study areas with different types. Plant species eaten were determined field or collected for identification. Gerenuk feed almost exclusively on leaves, shoots, flowers, and few fruits trees shrubs, as well some climbers vines, latter mainly rainy seasons. No small herbs grass found to be eaten. The composition diet differed considerably between areas, largely result differences available vegetation. Seasonal variations brought about by availability plants, notably ratio deciduous evergreen at seasons. On basis preliminary quantitative survey actual preferences have been evaluated. Some common plant rejected altogether, although they other browsing animals. A total 68 has so far recorded indicating that able utilize wide range plants. In view this adaptability, abundance preferred plants Park do not, present, appear endanger continued existence gerenuk.