Feeding management and food preference in Japanese giant flying squirrel, Petaurista leucogenys
2004
Nakano, C. (Tokyo Univ. of Agriculture (Japan)) | Ando, M. | Ikeda, S. | Sukemori, S. | Kurihara, Y.
In Japan young, juvenile and wounded adult of the Japanese giant flying squirrel Petaurista leucogenys are frequently found and brought to animal rescue facilities. Feeding techniques of these animals, however, have not been established. With the aim of establishing feeding techniques of P.l.management status of P.l.and other sciurid species (Sciurus Us, Sciurus vulgaris and Proms momonga and Pteromys volans) the situation in 38 zoos in Japan was investigated through questionnaire which included 1) feeding conditions, 2) breeding status, 3) hygenic status, and 4) food. Both species, S. and S.v.were often fed in groups. Feeding of P.l.were mainly of those rescued from harm and left in the wild, while S.l.and S.v.were mainly those fed in captivity. Two cases of breeding in were recorded in P.l.An animal bred only once during 13 years in captivity. On the other hand, S. and S.v.tended to breed more regularly, once or twice a year. Main feed for P.l.was tree leaves. Fruits, rootcrops and green vegetables were among major food. Major food for S.l., S.v.and P.m.and P.v.were in the order of fruits, animal origin food, seeds and nuts. Feed for P.l.contained much dietary fiber, while food for S.l.and S.v.contained more lipid and protein. Parasites were not many in any species. Mortality in P.l.mostly came from pneumonia, while major causes in other squirrels were injury-induced. In order to examine food preference of P.l., leaves of 16 tree species were given. Preference was in the order of Robunia pseudoacacia. Carpinus tschonoskii and Quercus serrata. Least preferred foods were in the order of Ginkgo biloba, Pinus densifroa. Camellia japonica. Results of food preference test coincide with food habit of P.l.in the wild.
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