Preferential utilization of pans by springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis)

Abstract

Forage utilization by springbok in pans and surrounding habitats was compared at one karroid shrubland site and two desert grassland sites and was found to be greater in pans than on adjacent plains and dunes. Springbok used pan areas for various social interactions and there was noticeably more springbok dung in pans. Pan soils had higher Ca, K, Na and P concentrations and plants remained green for longer in pans than in surrounding areas. The high quality of food in pans together with the suitability of pans as display sites may explain the preferential use of pan areas by springbok.