Copper Deficiency and Supplementation in Red Deer
Author Information
Author(s): Handeland Kjell, Bernhoft Aksel, Aartun Magne S
Primary Institution: National Veterinary Institute, Norway
Hypothesis
Does copper supplementation improve the health of a copper-deficient herd of red deer?
Conclusion
Copper supplementation led to improved body weights, coat quality, and reproductive success in the red deer herd.
Supporting Evidence
- Copper deficiency was diagnosed in the herd after observing poor health and emaciation.
- Supplementation with copper oxide capsules and copper-enriched concentrates improved serum copper levels.
- Body weights and reproductive success improved significantly after copper supplementation.
Takeaway
Red deer need copper to stay healthy, and giving them copper supplements helped them grow better and have more babies.
Methodology
The study involved monitoring a red deer herd over three years, with clinical observations, serum copper examinations, and various treatments for copper deficiency.
Limitations
The study did not determine whether the copper deficiency was due to inadequate dietary copper or interference from other dietary elements.
Participant Demographics
The herd consisted of approximately 15 adult hinds, calves, and yearlings.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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