TEMPORAL ACTIVITY PATTERNS OF SPRINGBOK ANTIDORCAS MARSUPIALIS AND MERINO SHEEP OVIS ARIES DURING A KAROO DROUGHT

SUMMARY

The daily activity patterns of springbok and Merino sheep were studied under open-range conditions in the Karoo for 80 days spanning one whole year, during a period of drought. Springbok spent a greater amount of time foraging (in more frequent bouts) than Merino sheep perhaps as a consequence of their greater dietary selectivity. Springbok had more time available for resting behaviour during optimal conditions for plant growth. As the pasture deteriorated, springbok devoted more time to foraging while diurnal behaviour rhythms disappeared. Major springbok mortality occurred when resting behaviour was restricted to one hour per day. Supplementary feed was supplied and utilised solely by Merino sheep which subsequently devoted more time to resting behaviour. Merino sheep spent less time foraging on hot days.