Defecation rates of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) based on fiber content in feces

Abstract

Objective: Developing three models to estimate the defecation rate of white-tailed deer according to the year season, content of neutral detergent fiber (NDF), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) in feces.

Design / methodology / approach: Nine captive adult deer were assigned to three levels of dietary fiber. Fecal groups (defecation rate) were counted, forage consumption was estimated, and feces were analyzed for NDF and ADF content. A randomized block design was used, where the effect of the treatments was blocked by season, and a multiple regression analysis was used to define the prediction models of the defecation rates.

Results: The rates were different for dietary fiber levels (p <0.0001), and for the year season (p = 0.0007). For spring, the defecation rate model (TDp) was TDp = -4.84696- [0.02159 (FDN)] + [0.58397 (FDA)]; for summer TDv = -51.0272 + [0.26868 (FDN)] + [1.61121 (FDA)]; and for winter TDi = 7.82939- [0.02667 (FDN)] + [0.17309 (FDA)].

Findings / conclusions: The defecation rate varies depending on the year season and the fiber content in the diet.