Utilization of Enclosure Space by Critically Endangered Musk Deer in Captivity

Area of Science:

• Animal behavior
• Conservation biology
• Wildlife management

Background:

• Captive housing is crucial for the conservation and musk production of endangered Alpine musk deer (Moschus chrysogaster).
• Understanding spatial use patterns in enclosures is vital for improving captive management and animal welfare.
• Enclosure design significantly impacts animal behavior and resource utilization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate space use patterns and the influence of enclosure design on captive Alpine musk deer.
• To identify key areas and resources utilized by musk deer within their enclosures.
• To provide data-driven recommendations for optimizing enclosure design for better welfare and productivity.

Main Methods:

• Studied 70 Alpine musk deer across 17 enclosures at a breeding farm in Gansu, China.
• Utilized focal sampling and all-occurrence recording to collect behavioral data.
• Calculated point occupancy rates to analyze enclosure space utilization patterns.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in activity site selection and shelter use were observed (p < 0.05).
• The central enclosure site with a shelter showed the highest utilization (21.21%).
• Adults, males, and individuals in higher density conditions showed increased shelter use.

Conclusions:

• Captive Alpine musk deer exhibit specific shelter use behaviors, highlighting shelters as critical spatial resources.
• Enclosure design, specifically shelter availability and distribution, directly influences musk deer welfare and productivity.
• Recommendations include increasing shelter quantity and optimizing spatial arrangement within enclosures.