Utilization of kermes oak forage by goats: Selection and nutritive composition of goat diets

Experience with forage utilization of kennes oak ( Quercus coccifera L.) shrublands of varying herbage cover (Α: 32, Β: 20, C: 12 %) by goats in Greece is reviewed. The selection of diet by goats was affected by the heρbage cover of shrublands. The herbaceous component contributed more than 50% to the goats’ diet during spring for shrubland Α , while in the remaining grazing periods goats selected larger quantities of browse. Crude protein (CP) content, neutral detergent fiber (NDF), lignin and in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) varied greatly frοm one season to the next. Diet quality deteriorated as the amount of herbage available matured and decreased. Goats selected diets higher in CP when grazing in shrubland Α than in Β and C (14.1, 12.1 and 11.4%, respectively). Dietary levels of CP approached or exceeded maintenance requirements for goats during all grazing periods. Goat diets of shrubland Α had lower levels of NDF and lignin compared with diets of shrublands Β and C almost year round. Diets frοιη shrubland Α tended to be more digestible the whole throught the year than Β and C. lt is concluded that shrubby and herbage components, being complementary, were better balanced proportion wise in pasture Α. However, during the dry period of the year (August – October) even this composition is insufficient to meet gestation requirements which occur this period; goat demands can be met by grazing shrublands composed of deciduous woody species in high proportion.