The number of scats dropped by captive European brown bears (Ursus arctos) was recorded in all months of the year, 1971-73. An overall total of 3,634 scats was recorded in 1,094 bear-days. Clear seasonal differences were found, with low values of about 2 scats per bear-day from November through June and higher values in the remaining months, and with a distinct peak in August of 7.19 scats per bear-day for adults. Extremes observed ranged from 0 to 11 scats per bear-day. Preliminary data indicate at least a 28 percent higher defecation rate for cubs. Significant (P < 0.01) differences were found among individual bears kept under identical conditions. Possible application of these findings to estimation of bear densities or bear use in the wild is discussed.
- Volume 4
- Issue
- Pages 249-253
- Publication Date 1 January 1980
- DOI 10.2307/3872875
- File Size 212.39 KB
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