Iberian wild goat coprophagy on dove guano. A case report and insights from food analysis

Heterospecific coprophagy. i.e., the consumption of excreta of other species, is reported and documented for the first time for Iberian wild goat Capra pyrenaica Schinz, 1838 and is discussed in light of the nutritional composition of the excreta. Two adult female goats were observed consuming guano of rock dove Columba livia Gmelin, 1789 in March 2021 in the Natural Park of Guara. The chemical composition and feed value of the dove guano consumed by goats was analyzed using standard methods of food analysis. The guano had moderate energy content and high concentrations of nitrogen-compounds that are convertible into protein. It was also rich in macronutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, sodium and sulfur, some of which (namely phosphorus) may be deficient for goats in calcareous environments such as the study area. High levels of sodium and possibly of guanine can cause hedonistic responses to salty and umami flavors that may contribute and reinforce this feeding habit. The guano was affected by desiccation and aging resulting from outdoor exposure, which might have also decreased its degree of pathogenicity. We hypothesize that female Iberian wild goats could be stimulated by guano in the second half of their pregnancy period, when their protein requirements increase. Heterospecific coprophagy has been documented in a wide range of mammals indicating it may be an important feeding activity, but it is still poorly described and understood. Its causes, consequences and relevance should deserve more attention to better understand their feeding ecology. This has to be faced under a multidisciplinary approach.