Feed consumption and foraging behavior of goats on different types of pasture
Observations of goats on pasture were made during three summer periods on a central kid-raising station and additionally, on a goat farm. The selection of plants was studied by the comparison of small fenced and unfenced areas. The different activities were calculated and compared. The circadian rhythm was studied under different climatic conditions. The results were compared with observations of goats in Mali. The botanical analysis of pasture showed a percentage of herbs from 30 to 40 percent, of forbs of 10 to 30 percent and of grasses from 35 to 55 percent. The percentage of grass consumed increased from July to October. Forbs are preferred, followed by herbs. Grasses rank lowest in preference order. There were significant differences between years, caused by different number of animals and by differences in pasture system. Observation indicate that grasses were consumed in the greatest amount and that the proportion of grasses increased during the grazing season. Only 24 of 62 different species of plants were not consumed. Besides forbs, leaves from trees of bushes were preferred. Poisonous plants were not consumed. The content of glycosides, tanning agents, slimy and bitter substances did not seem to influence the consumption in this study. Feed which had been in contact with feces or urine was not eaten. About 50 percent of the time was used in feeding and about 27 percent for resting. The different activities followed a well-defined circadian rhythm which was influenced by the number of animals
| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Texto biblioteca |
| Language: | eng |
| Published: |
Scottsdale, AZ (EUA)
1982
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