Fibre content in moose (Alces alces) faeces : a comparison between free-ranging and captive moose in Sweden

Abstract: Animals have evolved adaptations to survive and reproduce in certain environments. Based on these adaptations, different feeding types can be identified among ruminants from the continuum of browsers to grazers. Browsers are assumed to digest forage rich in soluble cell contents, while grazers are more equipped to digest cellulose. The European moose (Alces alces), classified as a browser, is a large herbivore with seasonal adaptions to its diet depending on the availability and nutritional composition of forage. Many zoos have continued issues of diarrhoea and trouble maintaining body condition when keeping moose in captivity. One possible reason for the diarrhoea is lack of fibre in the diet. According to the nutritional balancing act, the main goal for moose is to obtain a nutritionally balanced diet. The aim of this study was to compare the proportion of fibre in the faeces of captive and free-ranging moose to use as a for fibre content in the diets is similar. More specifically, the aim was to test if the diet provided to captive moose has similar proportion fibre in their diet as free-ranging moose that have the possibility to balance their intake of fibre. A total of 20 faecal samples from Kolmården Zoo and 10 from free-ranging moose were analysed. The comparison in fibre contents showed that the captive moose had higher contents of cellulose and lower contents of lignin in their faeces. Hemicellulose content showed no significant difference. Based on these findings, it is concluded the diets do not have similar fibre contents. The results from this study can be used as a pilot study for further research and adaptations to zoo diets for moose.