The wintering period of deer is divided into two key phases: the breeding recovery stage and the early velvet stage. This time frame typically spans from mid-November to the end of March, covering the winter and early spring seasons. During this period, deer undergo significant physiological changes that affect their feeding habits, energy needs, and overall health.
After a two-month breeding season, male deer in the breeding phase show a noticeable drop in body weight, weakened physical condition, reduced stomach volume, and a contracted abdomen. Non-breeding males also experience weight loss, often decreasing by 15% to 20% compared to their fall weight. Physiologically, males during this time exhibit declining sexual activity, increased appetite, improved digestion, and higher energy consumption. To meet these demands, feed rations should gradually increase in volume, with a greater emphasis on energy-dense feeds. The diet should primarily consist of roughage, supplemented with concentrated feeds. A certain amount of protein or non-protein nitrogen sources must be included to support microbial growth in the rumen. In concentrate feed, protein content should make up around 20%, with daily concentrate intake ranging from 0.8 to 1.2 kg for sika deer and 1.2 to 1.8 kg for red deer.
During this time, raw antler feed is discontinued. The deer maintain normal appetites and digestive functions, allowing them to store nutrients for antler development. The diet should focus on dry roughage and silage corn, with concentrated feed as a supplement. The protein ratio in concentrate feed should gradually increase, reaching 20% to 25%. Concentrate feed volumes should also be higher than in the recovery phase, with sika deer receiving 1.2 to 1.5 kg per day and red deer 1.8 to 2.5 kg. Male deer are usually fed twice a day with concentrate and two to three times with roughage, plus one night feeding. Dry roughage and silage are commonly used, but long-term silage feeding can lead to excessive ruminal acidity, which may harm rumen microbes. To prevent this, sodium bicarbonate should be added to the concentrate feed to neutralize acid and maintain a balanced pH in the rumen.
Winter management of deer requires careful attention to reduce physical exhaustion and improve cold resistance. Preventing diseases like rheumatism is crucial for safe winter survival. Management practices include morning exercise sessions and nighttime feeding. The shelter should have sufficient dry bedding, such as straw or rice husks, to keep the deer warm. Snow and ice in pens and walkways must be cleared regularly to prevent slipping. Providing warm drinking water is essential. The indoor environment should be windproof, warm, and dry, with adequate lighting. For weak or sick deer, using a plastic greenhouse can significantly improve their condition.
During the early velvet stage, deer groups are continuously monitored and adjusted based on their body condition. Weak or sick individuals should be separated for special care. Due to the release of estrus odors from non-pregnant females and the lingering effects of breeding season scents, some young males may become overly aggressive, leading to fights, injuries, or even internal damage. Careful monitoring and preventive measures are necessary to avoid such incidents and ensure the well-being of all deer.
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