Get reliable rangeland science

Both Redberry (Juniperus pinochotii) and Ashe Juniper (Juniperus ashei) are readily invading Texas rangelands. Both species of juniper contain monoterpenoids, a class of terpenes that if consumed at a high enough amount can cause aversive postingestive feedback that limits feed intake. Livestock will consume some juniper (<10%) during the winter when other forage is limited. In previous studies, both goats and sheep were fed juniper at weaning, and subsequently increased intake of the plant.� In each study, freshly weaned lambs and kids were placed in individual pens and fed juniper for 14 days. The results showed that both classes of livestock increased intake and readily accept juniper as a dietary component thereafter. Unfortunately, most livestock producers do not have the facilities or labor available to feed sheep or goats in individual pens. This study compared acceptance of juniper by goats in individual pens versus feeding in groups. In addition, � of all goats also received protein supplementation (37%) to determine if supplementation with a protein source consisting of amino acids that escape rumen degradation would further enhance juniper acceptance. Freshly weaned goats were placed in individual pens or in groups of five and fed juniper daily for 14 days. Intake was monitored daily. After 14 days of feeding juniper, all goats were placed in individual pens and fed juniper for an addition 7 days and intake was compared among treatments (conditioned in individual pens vs. conditioned in groups of five). Goats fed juniper in groups accepted juniper faster than goats fed juniper in individual pens. Regardless of treatment, all goats increased intake daily. Supplementation did not affect acceptance of juniper as a dietary item. By the end of the study, there were no differences in intake regardless of treatment.