Feeding Behavior of The Timor Deer (Cervus Timorensis) at The Tasikoki Wildlife Rescue Center, Bitung City, North Sulawesi

Abstrak

The Timor deer is an endemic species of Indonesia that is classified as vulnerable according to the IUCN Red List. The Tasikoki Animal Rescue Center (PPST) in Bitung City, North Sulawesi, needs to understand feeding behavior in order to support management and breeding success. This study aims to analyze the feeding behavior of Timor deer, including foraging, picking up and putting food into the mouth, chewing, swallowing, and ruminating at various times at the PPST, as well as measuring the frequency and duration of feeding activities and the deer's response to the food provided. Data collection was carried out using the scan sampling method through direct observation in the field and CCTV monitoring. The study was conducted over 10 days with an observation duration of 12 hours per day (06.00–18.00 WITA) with recording intervals of every 10 minutes. Before observation, a 3-day habituation period was conducted to minimize disturbance to the deer's natural behavior. Data on feed types were obtained through the drop-in method and identification of the feed parts most preferred by deer. The data were then analyzed descriptively. The results showed that deer had preferences for certain feed types and parts. In terms of forage, deer preferred cassava leaves and stems (Manihot esculenta), green cabbage (Brassica oleracea), and castor bean (Ricinus communis), while only the leaves of gamal (Gliricidia sepium) were consumed and the leaves, flowers, and stems of lamtoro (Leucaena leucocephala) were eaten. Chewing is the dominant behavior in males, females, and juveniles, while swallowing has the lowest percentage. Differences in frequency between individuals reflect variations in energy requirements based on sex and age.