Title
Nutrient content of five species of domestic animals commonly fed to captive raptors
Author(s)
Clum N.J., Fitzpatrick M.P., Dierenfeld E.S.
Published
1997
Publisher
Journal of Raptor Research
Abstract
The objective of this work was to provide a basis for more informed evaluation of diet options with respect to the nutritional needs of captive raptors. We compared nutritional content of five domesticated species that are most commonly fed to captive raptors; quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica), chickens (Gallus domesticus), rats (Rattus norvegicus), mice (Mus musculus) and guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus). We measured proximate composition (moisture, lipid, protein, ash), vitamin A, vitamin E, copper, iron, zinc, magnesium, manganese, calcium and potassium. Significant species differences were found in lipid and in vitamins A and E, and differences approached significance in iron and manganese concentrations. Differences in nutrient content between species did not correspond to differences in nutrient levels of diets consumed by prey. All species contained adequate amounts of protein, lipid, vitamin A, calcium, magnesium and zinc. However, whole domesticated prey were potentially inadequate sources of vitamin E, copper, iron and manganese.
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PUB12925