Abstract:
Although numerous hypotheses have
been proposed to explain geophagy, the primary
driver of this behaviour remains elusive. Supplementation
of scarce nutrients is one commonly cited
explanation. We examined the element concentration
of three licks relative to adjacent topsoils to infer the
possible reasons for geophagy at Loskop Dam Nature
Reserve. Lick samples had greater concentrations of
B, Co, Zn, Se, Mo and Mn (Loskop Main Lick); Cu
(Klopperskloof Lick); and Na (Klopperskloof Lick
and Rhenosterhoek Lick) than those of adjacent
topsoil. We suggest that supplementation with all or
some of these nutrients is a likely driver of geophagy in this fenced reserve, with different licks providing
herbivores with different suites of nutrients.
