Group dynamics of the Nubian ibex (Capra ibex nubiana) in the Tuwayiq Canyons, Saudi Arabia |
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Authors: | K Habibi |
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Institution: | National Commission for Wildlife Conservation and Development, P.O. Box 61681, Riyadh 11575, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia |
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Abstract: | Group dynamics of the Nubian ibex ( Capra ibex nubiana ), a sub-species adapted to arid environments, were studied at the Ibex Reserve, Saudi Arabia. Most of the animals (83%) were seen in mixed herds during the rut and post-rut. Mean group size of all sex-age categories was 7.2, with the majority of the ibex seen in groups of < 10. The sex ratio of adult animals was equal but that of juveniles, older than six months, was skewed towards females. Habitat structure, sparse vegetation cover and a small population size are factors that favour small group size. An equal adult sex ratio and a high number of juveniles indicate that the population has a high reproductive potential. |
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