Abstract
Despite reports of deer (Odocoileus sp.) preference for mistletoes (Phoradendron sp., Arceuthobium sp.) and widespread occurrence of this plant group in the Southwest, utilization seldom parallells availability. Nutritional analyses reveal unusually high digestibilities and yearlong levels of some constituent nutrients. Crude protein is marginal and calcium:phosphorus ratios are undesirably high in some species. Mistletoes appear to serve as energy-rich concentrate feeds of particular value to deer during winter. Mistletoes are frequently found in rumen contents from wild deer. Moreover, penned deer have shown marked preference for some mistletoe species abundantly distributed throughout Southwest vegetation types. Except for mistletoes, quality forages are seasonally in short supply on Arizona deer ranges. However, the author has observed few areas where mistletoes were utilized in proportion to their availability. These apparent contradictions prompted efforts to determine if more detailed nutritional analyses and digestibility trials could help clarify factors affecting use of this unusual plant group. This study was conducted at the Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station in cooperation with Arizona State University. Central headquarters are maintained in cooperation with Colorado State University at Fort Collins.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
