Specialty livestock producers can find the most comprehensive compilation of nutrient requirements so far available in a new University of Saskatchewan study.
But the study also reveals how little information there is for producers who are wondering how to supplement their animals’ diets.
“The lack of known mineral requirements really jumped out at us,” said university livestock agrologist Murray Feist.
The study surveyed research on elk, deer and bison.
Feist found a fair amount of knowledge of energy requirements of game animals. But it is unclear what supplements specialty livestock can be given.
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For example, there are signs that elk and deer can suffer from copper deficiency. Supplements are available, but producers don’t know how much to provide.
Feist used samples of wild deer, elk and bison livers to try to establish typical levels of nutrients for these species. He analyzed browse plants, which deer and elk are fond of eating in the wild. Feist found that some of the plants, such as shrubs, leaves, and aspen tips “have significant mineral content.”
Feist said few game farm enclosures contain many browse plants after a few years.
The study will not only be useful for producers looking to find the best information available on feeding specialty livestock, but also for researchers trying to fill in the gaps.
The study, called Evaluation and Development of Diets and Specific Feedstuffs for the Game Farm and Bison Industry, is available from Saskatchewan Agriculture by calling 306- 787-5152. It is also available on the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at http:www.agr.gov.sk.ca/scripts/adf/listing.idc.
