We present a novel technique using a video serial interface to link a motion-activated, infrared video camera and a weigh-scale to measure supplemental feed consumption by wildlife. This “video-scale” allows us to quantify consumption of various feeds by individual animals to an accuracy of 5 g and to record feeding duration to the second. Using intake rate and total time spent feeding, we calculated comparative use of supplemental feed by animals categorized by species, age, and sex. We present preliminary data on feed consumption and intake rates of wild and tame white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and raccoons (Procyon lotor) eating shelled corn, pelleted supplement, and whole cottonseed. Other uses and limitations of the video-scale are discussed.
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1 December 2006
Video-Scale: A Novel Device to Measure Supplemental Feed Consumption by Wildlife
SUSAN M. COOPER,
JAMES C. CATHEY,
SHANE S. SIECKENIUS
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Wildlife Society Bulletin
Vol. 34 • No. 5
December 2006
Vol. 34 • No. 5
December 2006
feed consumption
intake rate
Odocoileus virginianus
Procyon lotor
raccoon
supplemental feed
Texas