Available Forage and the Conditions for Avoiding Predation of the Siberian Roe Deer (Capreolus pygargus) in the Lesser Xing’an Mountains

Abstract

Our study focused on quantifying available forage and the conditions for avoiding predation provided within the home ranges of Siberian roe deer (Capreolus pygargus). We conducted transect surveys in both winter and summer–autumn home ranges of the Siberian roe deer in the Tieli Forestry Bureau of the Lesser Xing’an Mountains. Our results revealed significant differences: (1) In terms of the quantity and quality of available forage, the summer–autumn home range had substantially more available forage than the winter home range, with meadows and cornfields showing the highest edible biomass in each, respectively. In terms of forage quality, there were differences in hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin content between the two ranges. (2) In terms of the conditions for avoiding predation, the winter home range had lower vegetation coverage and greater visibility, making escape strategies more viable. In contrast, the summer–autumn home range had denser vegetation and limited visibility, making hiding strategies more viable. Our study offers comprehensive insights into the available forage and the conditions for avoiding predation, which is crucial for wildlife conservation strategies and habitat management in the region, as it directly informs strategies that address the seasonal forage requirements and predation avoidance of these deer, ultimately enhancing their prospects for survival in the area.