Effects of feeding practices on the performance of Eurasian elk (Alces alces) in European Zoos

Bc. Eva Čelakovská

Master's thesis

Abstract:

Eurasian elk (Alces alces) is a common species bred in European zoological gardens. The main problem in captive Eurasian elk is relatively low lifespan and survival rate of calves which are closely connected with feeding practices. Our study was designed to better understand the good practices in elk husbandry which may help to improve their performance in captivity. The data were collected in 22 zoological gardens in European countries, in 2016. In total, 79 individuals were included in the analysis. Data analysis were focused on feeding strategies and breeding management. For the statistical analysis based on the breeding management was also used information obtained from ZIMS in years 1986-2016, focused on breeding success, twinning success and average longevity. 70% of zoological gardens switched between the winter and summer diet. Tree preferences in captive Eurasian elk were as follows: willow 0.97, oak 0.69, birch 0.67, pine 0.64, maple 0.61, aspen 0.58. Oak consumption significantly affected seasonal changes in faeces consistency, reported birth rate and reported survival rate of twins. Scots pine had a positive effect on calculated breeding success over the last 5 years (2012 – 2016). Use of premixes positively affected reported twinning rate, reported survival rate of twins and reported birth rate. Twinning rate over the last 5 years (2012 – 2016) was positively affected by browsing ad libitum. 83.3% females gave a birth every year. Calculated longevity 6+ months was 4.1 years and calculated percentage of calves surviving up to the weaning age was 36.59%. Eurasian elk is very interesting animal, not only because of antlers and appearance, but mainly because of differences and strangeness in feeding strategies.

Keywords

breeding success, twinning rate, diet composition

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 27. 4. 2018

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: doc. Francisco Ceacero Herrador, Ph.D.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences

Master programme / field:
Tropical Agriculture / Animal and Food Sciences in Tropics and Subtropics