Seasonal variations in total and alimentary nutrient concentrations and pools in European roe deer ( Capreolus capreolus)

Abstract

Alimentary and entire body pools of mineral (K, Na, P, Ca and Mg) and nitrogen were measured in 20 roe deer collected in February, April; May/June and September. Seasonal variations in nutrient concentration of the vegetation were recorded. The nitrogen, K, P, Ca and Mg concentration in the alimentary tract was in general syncronized with the seasonal nutrient concentration in the vegetation. The lower Na ruminai concentration and pool in early summer coincided with increased K intake. No seasonal variation in total body pools in relation to body mass were recorded, indicating no severe seasonal mineral constraints.