Faecal analysis as an indicator of the nutritional status of the diet of roan antelope in South Africa.

Abstract

Faecal analyses were conducted of six roan antelope populations in the Southern African savanna biome. Faecal samples were collected each month over a two year period in the Nylsvley Nature Reserve and during winter 1995 from five other roan populations. Samples were analysed with the NIRS procedure for nitrogen and fibres. The macrominerals Ca, P, K and Na were analysed with wet chemical analysis. The seasonal variation in faecal nitrogen and fibre, with a higher quality in summer (high protein and low fibre) is a reflection of the changing forage quality. Seasonal changes in macrominerals were not significant, but differences were found between populations residing in different geographical areas. Since all populations, other than that of the Nylsvley Nature Reserve, were artificially fed during winter, a generally higher faecal quality was found in these populations. It appears that artificial feeding during winter is advantageous for animals. Faecal analysis can be applied as a management tool to indirectly measure the forage quality. This study indicated that when monitoring seasonal changes in faecal quality or the effectiveness of a winter feeding programme for roan, only FN and faecal fibres need be measured. When comparing the diet quality between geographical areas, the measurement of macrominerals would be more appropriate.