The feeding strategy of Spanish ibex (Capra pyrenaica) in the northern Sierra de Gredos (central Spain)

Foraging habits and factors most influencing diet selection in the Spanish ibex (Capra pyrenaica) were analysed in the Sierra de Gredos area (central western Spain). Diet selection was analysed on the basis of plant availability and chemical composition. The most abundant herbaceous species in the study area were Nardus stricta, Festuca indigesta and Deschampsia flexuosa, while Cytisus purgans was the most abundant woody species. The diet of the Spanish ibex is primarily herbaceous throughout the year and consists essentially of grasses. Diet selection was primarily determined by forage availability, although plant digestibility and fibre content were also important. Digestibility had more influence on food choice in spring, when cell wall related parameters had less influence. The foraging strategy of Spanish ibex consists of consuming the most locally abundant species, many of which are fibre-rich.