This study investigated the seasonal and plant species patterns of short-term intake rate (STIR) by Nguni goats fed six common browse species in subhumid subtropical savannas. Six 2-year-old castrated Nguni goats weighing an average of 26 kg each were penned individually and maintained on a basal diet of ram, lamb and ewe pellets and grass hay. The STIR was influenced by season, with the highest mean STIR recorded during the dry season (mean ± SEM: 0.18 ± 0.012 g DM s?1) and least during the late wet season (0.15 ± 0.009 g DM s?1). Broadleaf species had higher STIR than fine-leaf species (0.18 ± 0.052 g DM s?1 vs 0.14 ± 0.055 g DM s?1). Species that produce new leaves on new long shoots were consumed at higher rates than those that produce new leaves on short shoots (0.19 ± 0.054 g DM s?1 vs 0.15 ± 0.056 g DM s?1). STIR showed no clear patterns in relation to leaf chemistry. These results can be used to improve estimates of intake rates from free-foraging animals using direct observation methods based on time spent at a feeding station depending on the plant species and the season in which it is consumed.
Journal articles from the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) African Journal of Range and Forage Science as well as related articles and reports from throughout the southern African region.