Comparative growth in four races of black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus). Part I. Growth in body weight

Abstract

The growth rates and patterns of four racial stocks of black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus) revealed intrinsic racial differences. Seasonal periodicity in the pattern of growth and winter losses in weight were characteristic of both sexes and all four races even when raised in a standard environment with a constant supply of balanced nutrients. A modified method of analysis permitted comparisons of seasonal growth, effective or net growth, and estimations of mature size for each race. Daily food consumption varied seasonally in keeping with alterations in body weight. Similarities between both sexes suggest an underlying metabolic shift which, coupled with periodic seasonal growth, may have adaptive value for free-ranging deer.