Nutrient composition of selected plant species consumed by semi free-ranging lion-tailed macaques (Macaca silenus) and ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) on St. Catherines Island, Georgia, U.S.A
Abstract 10.1002/(SICI)1098-2361(1999)18:63.3.CO;2-0 Feeding behavior in two groups of semi free-ranging primates, lion tailed macaques (LTM) (Macaca silenus, n = 9) and ring-tailed lemurs (RTL) (Lemur catta, n = 13), residing on St. Catherines Island, GA, was observed seasonally at quarterly intervals for 1 year. Each group had unlimited access to native flora and fauna in […]
Preliminary observations on the relationship of calcium ingestion to vitamin D status in the green iguana (Iguana iguana)
Abstract 10.1002/(SICI)1098-2361(1997)16:33.3.CO;2-0 We hypothesized the vitamin D-deficient green iguanas with depleted calcium stores would seek to augment calcium intake by self-selection of a high calcium source. Eight green iguanas were offered free-choice ground oystershell in addition to their regular diet. Of these, two had not been exposed to ultraviolet (UV-B) radiation for > 5 years […]
Life history trade-offs are influenced by the diversity, availability and interactions of dietary antioxidants
The expression of most life history traits, such as immunity, growth and the development of sexual signals, is negatively affected by high levels of oxidative stress. Dietary antioxidants can reduce oxidative stress and have therefore been the focus of numerous studies in behavioural and evolutionary ecology in the last few decades. Most of this research […]
How energy and coavailable foods affect forage selection by the western grey kangaroo
We aimed to identify chemical properties of plant species that correlate with their palatability, quantify a common currency of forage for the western grey kangaroo, Macropus fuliginosus, and test the impact of frequency of occurrence on food selection. Of 24 plant species exposed to kangaroos, those high in salts and tannins were avoided, whereas those […]
Sex and diet affect the behavioral response of rats to chronic mild stressors
To investigate the interaction between sex, stressors, and dietary choice in rats, a preferred diet under the influence of chronic mild stressors was empirically determined to consist of soybeans and cookies in addition to lab chow. This preferred mixed diet was then tested for its influence on several behavioral tests at the end of prolonged […]
Links between ruminants’ food preference and their welfare
Nutrition is an important aspect of welfare, and in most recommendations for the welfare of animals adequate nutrition is a primary requirement. However, in intensive livestock production systems the decision for adequate nutrition is made based on traditional paradigms of feeding monotonous rations or plant monocultures, frequently with excesses or imbalances of nutrients relative to […]