CATTLE DIETS AND DISTRIBUTION ON SPRING–FALL AND SUMMER RANGES NEAR KAMLOOPS, BRITISH COLUMBIA

Abstract

A 2-yr investigation of the herd distribution and diet selection of beef cattle on range was conducted near Kamloops, British Columbia. Two ranges were studied: one grazed in spring and fall, and the other in summer. Diet selection was determined by grazing two rumen-fistulated beef cattle, by clipping plots before and after grazing on the spring–fall range, and by conducting browse surveys on the summer range. Cattle distribution was determined on the spring–fall range. During the 2 yr, the diet composition averaged 93% grass, 2% forbs, 2% shrubs, and 3% trees. Grass was consumed more in the spring (95%) than in either summer or fall (93 and 92%, respectively). Interseasonal change in the consumption of the four plant types (grass, forbs, shrubs, trees) was greatest in the summer and fall. In the summer, consumption of forbs and trees increased, while consumption of grasses remained constant and consumption of shrubs decreased. In the fall, grass and shrub consumption increased, while forb and tree consumption decreased. Three open range habitats (south slope, knoll, flat field) and one treed habitat were defined for distribution studies. The south slope and flat field were utilized for feeding, while the knoll and treed habitats were used for both resting and feeding. The treed habitat was most important in providing shelter from adverse weather. Grazing intensity was generally less on the treed habitat than on the others.