Nutritional ecology of a browsing ruminant, the kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), through the seasonal cycle

摘要: The activities and food selection of four hand-reared kudus were recorded in a large fenced enclosure containing natural savanna vegetation the Nylsvley Nature Reserve, South Africa. Leaves selected species analysed chemically for crude protein, fibre constituents, phosphorus, condensed tannin total polyphenols. Available protein metabolizable energy estimated allowing potential antinutritional effects tannins. Leaves palatable deciduous woody plants herbaceous forbs formed main dietary constituents during late wet season. Foliage from evergreens robust added to diet dry Towards end season unpalatable eaten. At start growing new leaves otherwise staple source, together with fruits Strychnos spp. Correspondingly, digestible matter concentrations declined reach low at season. Total daily intake increased compensate reduced quality season, until little edible foliage remained. While remained well above maintenance requirements, fell below requirements Phosphorus may have been submaintenance Nutritional balance was dependent on availability particular components serve as nutritional stepping stones crucial times year. These included plus early-flushing season-wet transition.