Feed selection and digestibility by captive giraffe

Abstract A digestion trial with subsequent examination of feed selection was conducted using two captive giraffe fed four feedstuffs. Apparent digestibility coefficients were relatively high, indicating that the animals were efficiently utilizing the feedstuffs. However, values could be affected by the possible ingestion of soil containing acid‐insoluble ash. A high fiber pelleted feed was eaten in a greater quantity than a low fiber feed, even though the constituents in each feed were the same. Gross energy content of residual hay was higher than gross energy content of the offered hay. whereas neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber content were lower in the residual than in the offered hay. The animals did not appear to be selecting for a diet high in energy or low in fiber. Based on these results and other information, re‐classification of giraffe as a facultative concentrate selector or as an intermediate feeder may be appropriate.