Comparison of the voluntary feed and water intake between springbok and sheep under captive conditions (Short communication)

The voluntary feed and water intake by springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis) and two breeds of sheep (Ovis spp.) were investigated by means of trials conducted in pens. The dry-matter intake (g DM/kg W^0,75/d) by the respective animals was as follows: springbok 90,5; Dorper 82,4; and Merino 88,6. These differences were not statistically significant (P <0,01). In terms of stock units the sheep: springbok ratio given in the literature is 1: 2,4 which compares favourably with the ratio of 1: 2,1 which was derived from dry-matter intake. Water intake by the springbok was significantly (P <0,01) less than by either breed of sheep. The volume of water taken in (ml/g DM/d) by the respective animals was as follows: springbok 1,9; Dorper 2,7; Merino 2,9.