The Feed Requirements of Adult Red Deer

Abstract

This paper reviews the feeding requirements of adult red deer from nutritional, management and ecological perspectives. Particular emphasis is placed on the need to balance production objectives in the context of ecological sustainability. Topics such as feeding behaviour, feeding management, the relationship of body condition score to nutritional sufficiency, daily and seasonal feed intake requirements, and pasture species selection are also presented. The marketability of venison and the longterm acceptance of deer farming will be largely shaped by consumer perception of the animal welfare implications of production techniques, the ecological impact of production and an industry image that reflects social responsibility. Development of efficient feeding systems for farmed deer will impact on all of these areas.