Seasonal changes in dietary quality were measured using steers fistulated at the oesophagus. From spring through to winter, crude protein (CP), in vitro digestibility (IVD) and leaf percentage in the diet declined significantly while percentage dead material increased significantly. Consumption of stem material increased gradually but declined in winter. Dietary CP and IVD were positively correlated with leaf percentage but negatively correlated with percentage dead material in the diet. The decline in dietary quality towards winter could be largely explained by changes in plant part consumption. It is recommended that protein supplementation of animals grazing veld be initiated in February in the area.
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.