Feeding habits of the Cape Mountain Zebra Equus zebra zebra LINN. 1758

Abstract

The feeding habits of the Cape mountain zebra Equus zebra zebra Linn. 1758, were studied in the Mountain Zebra National Park. They were highly selective utilising only seven of 17 available grass species at feeding sites and 26 of plants available. These zebra fed at 40 mm to 80 mm above the ground except when eating seed heads of certain grass species. Protein levels of grasses eaten were above 4 and seasonal movements were associated with mean food quality @ there were thus summer grazing and winter grazing areas. Mean crude protein in the faeces fluctuated seasonally.