Daniel Bartolome | University of León - Universidad de León (original) (raw)
Papers by Daniel Bartolome
World Rabbit Science, 2013
The activity of 2 populations of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L. 1758), consisting of 14 ... more The activity of 2 populations of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L. 1758), consisting of 14 adults (>9 mo of age) each (4 males and 10 females), was analysed over 2 consecutive years. Rabbits were captured in the wild and kept in 2 separate enclosures of 0.5 ha, with each enclosure divided into 2 zones: a smaller area where warrens were located (breeding area) and a larger area where food and water were provided (feeding area). Seven rabbits in each enclosure were individually tagged with a microchip (2 males and 5 females) and, after installing 2 detection devices, it was possible to identify which of the 2 areas they were located in and record the length of time spent in each. To regulate the size of the breeding population, young rabbits produced in the enclosures were captured and removed regularly. Considering the number of movements between areas and the time spent in the feeding area, a circadian activity pattern was found, reporting 2 maximum activity peaks coinciding with twilight (18.35% of the total movements, 6-8 a.m.) and daybreak (22.95%, 7-10 p.m.) while activity was dramatically decreased during the midday hours (1.86%, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.). Rabbits displayed a seasonal pattern throughout the year, with maximum activity levels during winter (45.76% of the total movements, January-March) and spring (42.91%, April-June), which could be related to higher reproductive activity at this time of the year as a higher breeding output was reported in June and September. The levels of activity exhibited by males (13.44% daily activity rate) were significantly higher than those displayed by females (9.80%). No significant differences were found regarding time spent on the feeding area in relation to season or gender. The average duration of each foray to the feeding area was higher during the summer, higher for females than males and higher during the middle of the night than the rest of the day.
Anales de la Real …, 2007
Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2008
Approximately four million red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa) are released in Spain each year... more Approximately four million red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa) are released in Spain each year for repopulation or hunting purposes, all produced on intensive farming facilities under a forced pairing system. We studied the ethological response differences between two types of red-legged partridges couples: free and forced, using an experimental protocol with two groups of 20 couples each one: (A) group of forced pairing, one male and one female randomly chosen were introduced in the same cage and (B) group of free pairing, a female had the opportunity to chose between four males, using as female choice parameter the time spent by the female near each male. The behaviour of the couples during the first week they were together was evaluated. Female red-legged partridges chose males of higher weight and this males display more frequently patterns of feeding and vigilance behaviour. In the red-legged partridge alert and vigilance behavioural patterns are closely correlated to other feeding and cohesive behavioural patterns that increase the reproductive success of the couple. There was not aggressive behaviour in the free couples and only 2 attacks in the forced couples. In conclusion to have the opportunity to choose a partner increase the display of patterns of cohesive and feeding behaviour that increase the welfare of the females red-legged partridge on farm, but the environmental conditions of this study were not able to demonstrate differences in welfare due to pairing methods because there was a practically absence of aggressive behaviour of the male in both pairing options. We consider the cage design and space allowance together with the pairing methods as important factors that should be study in the future to improve welfare of farmed red-legged partridges. # Please cite this article in press as: Alonso, M.E., et al., Influence of the pairing system on the behaviour of farmed red-legged partridge couples (Alectoris rufa), Appl.
European Journal of Wildlife Research, 2010
This paper studies the visits of wild fauna, the influence of vegetal cover and fencing at water ... more This paper studies the visits of wild fauna, the influence of vegetal cover and fencing at water site election, and consumption tendency in water troughs designed for small game species distributed in an agricultural Mediterranean area during the summers from 2002 to 2005. Red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa), lagomorphs (Oryctolagus cuniculus, Lepus granatensis), and other autochthonous species (birds and wild canids) visited water sources throughout the study. The number of visits by target species was higher than nongame. Lagomorphs preferred protected troughs (with surrounding vegetal cover) while partridges opted for open ones (without cover). Fencing had no effect on the visits of birds and lagomorphs, but it did reduce the visits of wild canids. Harsh climatic conditions determined an increase in water consumption in summer. Before designing a water trough device for this fauna, managers should consider that (1) target and non-target species could try to make use of it, (2) water points should be adapted to target species self protection, (3) fencing can prevent undesirable visitors (particularly predators), and (4) water requirements increase in the harsh moments of the dry season.
Poultry science, 2015
Aiming to produce game birds suitable for re-establishment purposes, we studied the survival and ... more Aiming to produce game birds suitable for re-establishment purposes, we studied the survival and behavior of 31 adult red-legged partridges reared by their natural parents in captivity (parent-reared) and 67 wild red-legs (35 adults and 32 subadults). Birds were radio-tracked and released in a game estate where management targeting small game species was conducted and shooting was not allowed. Survival of parent-reared partridges was shorter (mean 108 d) than wild adults (mean 160 d), though no significant differences were found. Parent-reared birds showed a longer escape reaction (mean 11.7 sec) than wild adults (mean 0.4 sec) and were mainly predated by terrestrial predators (52%), whereas the most important source of predation in wild red-legs was raptors (49%). The home range of parent-reared (mean 23 ha) was not significantly lower than wild adults (mean 27 ha). Nineteen percent of parent-reared and 31.4% of wild adults paired successfully, and we recorded 6 pairs in which one ...
Se realiza una primera aproximación sobre la situación y problemática de la liebre ibérica en Esp... more Se realiza una primera aproximación sobre la situación y problemática de la liebre ibérica en España con el fin de plantear aquellas actividades de fomento y mejora que debieran aplicarse para gestionar, de forma racional, las poblaciones autóctonas. Partiendo de un conocimiento básico de la biología y ecología de la especie es posible, de una parte, identificar los principales factores que inciden negativamente en las poblaciones silvestres y, de la otra, establecer las medidas que deben seguirse para su aprovechamiento sostenible como recurso cinegético. Dentro de este último punto se destaca la creciente tendencia a la introducción de la liebre en sistemas extensivos y semiextensivos de producción animal debido a la gran demanda de animales para la caza. En espera de futuras experiencias científicas en este campo se ha realizado una clasificación de los sistemas de cría existentes en España así como un primer análisis de su potencial productividad, con el objetivo de proponer a esta actividad como alternativa viable económica y ecológicamente asumible en aquellos entornos mesetarios y zonas desfavorecidas que reúnan las características mínimas para la crianza de la especie.
RESUMEN En este trabajo se realiza una revisión de las posibilidades que ofrece el agua electroli... more RESUMEN En este trabajo se realiza una revisión de las posibilidades que ofrece el agua electrolizada como agente de limpieza en los sistemas de producción animal, donde ha sido utilizada con éxito en procesos de desinfección de equipos y como higienizante del agua de bebida, observán-dose interesantes efectos sobre la fisiología y la sanidad animal así como en el rendimiento y pro-ductividad de los animales. SUMMARY The aim of this work is to revise the potential of electrolyzed water (EW) as a cleaning agent in animal production systems. EW has been successfully used in disinfection processes, as agent for sanitizing equipment and drinking water. Its effects on animal physiology, health and per-formance are also revised.
Chilean journal of agricultural research, 2014
ABSTRACT Feeding systems can play an important role, not only in beef farm profitability but also... more ABSTRACT Feeding systems can play an important role, not only in beef farm profitability but also in animal health and performance. Fourteen Avilena-Negra Iberica bulls, with an initial weight of 270 kg (SE 22.6 kg) and aged 223 d (SE 16.2) were used to study the effect of two feeding systems on ruminal pH and temperature and animal performance when calves were kept in loose housing conditions. Feeding systems were barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) grain-based concentrate plus barley straw (CONC) and maize (Zea mays L.) silage-based total mixed ration (TMR). Internal wireless boluses were used to collect pH and temperature values every 10 min throughout the measurement period (15 d). Diet did not modify (P > 0.10) average daily gain, carcass weight, dressing percentage, ruminal mucosa color, or papilla counts. Papilla width and papilla width/lamina propria thickness were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in TMR than in CONC animals. Time spent below ruminal pH thresholds of 7.0, 6.6, 6.2, and 5.8 and the corresponding areas under the curve were higher (P < 0.05) for animals fed under the TMR system. No significant changes were observed between experimental treatments in parameters related to ruminal temperature or estimated number of times that the animals were drinking during the day (P > 0.10). Although animal performance is not affected, feeding fattening calves on a concentrate plus barley straw diet can result in better rumen conditions than using maize silage-based TMR.
Archivos de Zootecnia, 2013
Con el objetivo de estudiar la distribución del consumo eléctrico a lo largo del día en explotaci... more Con el objetivo de estudiar la distribución del consumo eléctrico a lo largo del día en explotaciones de ganado vacuno lechero con diferente sistema de ordeño (espina de pescado, paralelo, automático (robot), rotativo, circuito de ordeño y tándem), se llevaron a cabo auditorías energéticas en 61 explotaciones de Castilla y León (74 ± 8,4 vacas, 2.284 ± 265,2 l/día y 29,3 ± 0,91 l/vaca y día). Se registró información sobre el tipo de explotación y sala de ordeño, producción de leche, número de animales en lactación, horarios, equipos asociados a la producción y detalles de la factura eléctrica. Asimismo, se midió el consumo de electricidad mediante la utilización de analizadores de red situados a la entrada de las explotaciones. Se calcularon los índices de utilización de la electricidad por vaca y por litro de leche producido, el consumo medio para cada hora del día y para cada día. Aunque el consumo eléctrico fue muy variable a lo largo del día, la mayoría de los sistemas mostraron un pico máximo de consumo a las 8:00 h. y otro a las 20:00 h.; el pico mínimo se registró entre las 12:00 y las 18:00 h. Los sistemas de ordeño automático tuvieron un consumo diario más constante, aunque, junto con el sistema de circuito de ordeño, presentaron los mayores consumos por unidad de producción. El tiempo de funcionamiento del sistema de ordeño y del tanque, así como la potencia y dimensionado de este último son los factores de mayor importancia a considerar para optimizar el consumo eléctrico.
Archivos de Zootecnia, 2013
Efficiency. Energy. Milking. Saving.
Research in Veterinary Science, 2013
Tap water alone (TW) or treated with 3% of slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) were used in... more Tap water alone (TW) or treated with 3% of slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) were used in this experiment to study its effect on water quality, blood biochemical parameters and milk yield and composition. Each type of water was supplied to one group of 10 milking ewes for 25 days. Weekly water samples from troughs were taken. On days 1, 12 and 25, milk yield was measured, and milk and blood samples were taken. SAEW reduced (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) bacterial counts (aerobic mesophilic, total coliform and streptococcus). Blood gases, biochemical parameters and milk yield and its composition were not affected (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; 0.05). SAEW can be used at 3% rate as a powerful and economic agent for sanitizing drinking water for dairy ewes with no effects on animal performance.
Archivos de Zootecnia, 2011
Reproduction. Andrology. Sperm.
Archivos de Zootecnia, 2013
Se ha realizado un estudio epidemiológico para conocer la prevalencia de dos agentes infecciosos ... more Se ha realizado un estudio epidemiológico para conocer la prevalencia de dos agentes infecciosos comunes, IBR y BRSV, en 15 ganaderías bovinas de Lidia en Salamanca (Castilla y León, España). En 2006 se obtuvieron muestras sanguíneas de 286 animales, aparentemente sanos y sin problemas evidentes. Los análisis serológicos se realizaron utilizando la técnica de diagnóstico ELISA, obteniéndose una prevalencia por rebaño del 99,92 % e intra-rebaño del 85,29 % para la IBR, mientras que para el BRSV se obtuvieron un 82,23 % y del 89,69 % respectivamente. SUMMARY An epidemiological study was conducted to determine the prevalence of the IBR and BRSV in 15 bullfighting cattle farms from Salamanca (Castilla y León, España). In 2006, a total of 286 blood samples from healthy calves and cows were collected. ELISA kits were used to process the samples. The herd prevalence against both viruses were 99.92 % and individual prevalence were 85.29 % for IBR and for BRSV were 82.23 % and 89.69 % respectively.
The activity of 2 populations of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L. 1758), consisting of 14 ... more The activity of 2 populations of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L. 1758), consisting of 14 adults (>9 mo of age) each (4 males and 10 females), was analysed over 2 consecutive years. Rabbits were captured in the wild and kept in 2 separate enclosures of 0.5 ha, with each enclosure divided into 2 zones: a smaller area where warrens were located (breeding area) and a larger area where food and water were provided (feeding area). Seven rabbits in each enclosure were individually tagged with a microchip (2 males and 5 females) and, after installing 2 detection devices, it was possible to identify which of the 2 areas they were located in and record the length of time spent in each. To regulate the size of the breeding population, young rabbits produced in the enclosures were captured and removed regularly. Considering the number of movements between areas and the time spent in the feeding area, a circadian activity pattern was found, reporting 2 maximum activity peaks coinciding with twilight (18.35% of the total movements, 6-8 a.m.) and daybreak (22.95%, 7-10 p.m.) while activity was dramatically decreased during the midday hours (1.86%, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.). Rabbits displayed a seasonal pattern throughout the year, with maximum activity levels during winter (45.76% of the total movements, January-March) and spring (42.91%, April-June), which could be related to higher reproductive activity at this time of the year as a higher breeding output was reported in June and September. The levels of activity exhibited by males (13.44% daily activity rate) were significantly higher than those displayed by females (9.80%). No significant differences were found regarding time spent on the feeding area in relation to season or gender. The average duration of each foray to the feeding area was higher during the summer, higher for females than males and higher during the middle of the night than the rest of the day.
Este trabajo fue financiado por el Convenio «Reproducción de especies cinegéticas autóctonas», en... more Este trabajo fue financiado por el Convenio «Reproducción de especies cinegéticas autóctonas», entre la Universidad de León y la Excma. Diputación de Valladolid RESUMEN Estudiamos el consumo diario de agua y la presencia en bebederos artificiales por parte de las especies de Caza Menor más importantes en España: la perdiz roja (Alectoris rufa, L.), el conejo de monte (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L.) y la liebre ibérica (Lepus granatensis, Rosenhauer). Utilizamos 5 abrevaderos en un área Mediterránea de uso agrícola, durante los veranos desde el año 2002 hasta el 2005. Cada abrevadero tenía 2 bebederos que estaban dispuestos en 2 entornos distintos, uno llamado despejado y el otro protegido; la diferencia estaba en la cobertura vegetal que rodeaba al protegido. Registramos las huellas y observaciones de los animales en los bebederos, para evaluar la presencia de las especies silvestres y el consumo de agua en cada visita realizada (n = 480). Encontramos que la Caza Menor y las especies no cinegéticas visitaron los bebederos durante todo el estudio, pero el número de presencias de la Caza (perdiz roja y conejo) fue superior a las no cinegéticas, como otras aves y cánidos silvestres (x 2 = 429.19, P < 0.05). El consumo medio diario de agua está condicionado por los factores climáticos (temperatura y humedad relativa), de modo que en los
Italian Journal of Zoology, 2012
Although the Iberian hare is important to Spanish ecosystems and a valued game species, little is... more Although the Iberian hare is important to Spanish ecosystems and a valued game species, little is known about the survival and spatial behaviour of the species, which are crucial for correct management decisions. This paper studies the survival, home range, probable causes of mortality and den-site selection for 23 wild Iberian hares Lepus granatensis. We used radio telemetry to monitor hares on arable farmland in north-west Spain where habitat management measures were taken, control of predators was carried out and hunting was not allowed. Survival for the period studied (300 days) was 13% and average home range size (MCP 95%) was 39.6 ha. Probable causes of death included predation by wild canids (52%), disease (13%), roadkills (9%), and unknown (26%) for hares we studied. The red fox Vulpes vulpes was the main predator, whereas no raptor predation was reported. Den-site selection was affected by habitat type and hares showed a high preference for uncultivated land. Home range size tended to decrease when hares selected uncultivated land, grassland and lucerne, which were transition zones between shrubland, forest, and cultivated lands.
European Journal of Wildlife Research, 2010
This paper studies the visits of wild fauna, the influence of vegetal cover and fencing at water ... more This paper studies the visits of wild fauna, the influence of vegetal cover and fencing at water site election, and consumption tendency in water troughs designed for small game species distributed in an agricultural Mediterranean area during the summers from 2002 to 2005. Red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa), lagomorphs (Oryctolagus cuniculus, Lepus granatensis), and other autochthonous species (birds and wild canids) visited water sources throughout the study. The number of visits by target species was higher than nongame. Lagomorphs preferred protected troughs (with surrounding vegetal cover) while partridges opted for open ones (without cover). Fencing had no effect on the visits of birds and lagomorphs, but it did reduce the visits of wild canids. Harsh climatic conditions determined an increase in water consumption in summer. Before designing a water trough device for this fauna, managers should consider that (1) target and non-target species could try to make use of it, (2) water points should be adapted to target species self protection, (3) fencing can prevent undesirable visitors (particularly predators), and (4) water requirements increase in the harsh moments of the dry season.
World Rabbit Science, 2013
The activity of 2 populations of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L. 1758), consisting of 14 ... more The activity of 2 populations of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L. 1758), consisting of 14 adults (>9 mo of age) each (4 males and 10 females), was analysed over 2 consecutive years. Rabbits were captured in the wild and kept in 2 separate enclosures of 0.5 ha, with each enclosure divided into 2 zones: a smaller area where warrens were located (breeding area) and a larger area where food and water were provided (feeding area). Seven rabbits in each enclosure were individually tagged with a microchip (2 males and 5 females) and, after installing 2 detection devices, it was possible to identify which of the 2 areas they were located in and record the length of time spent in each. To regulate the size of the breeding population, young rabbits produced in the enclosures were captured and removed regularly. Considering the number of movements between areas and the time spent in the feeding area, a circadian activity pattern was found, reporting 2 maximum activity peaks coinciding with twilight (18.35% of the total movements, 6-8 a.m.) and daybreak (22.95%, 7-10 p.m.) while activity was dramatically decreased during the midday hours (1.86%, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.). Rabbits displayed a seasonal pattern throughout the year, with maximum activity levels during winter (45.76% of the total movements, January-March) and spring (42.91%, April-June), which could be related to higher reproductive activity at this time of the year as a higher breeding output was reported in June and September. The levels of activity exhibited by males (13.44% daily activity rate) were significantly higher than those displayed by females (9.80%). No significant differences were found regarding time spent on the feeding area in relation to season or gender. The average duration of each foray to the feeding area was higher during the summer, higher for females than males and higher during the middle of the night than the rest of the day.
Anales de la Real …, 2007
Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2008
Approximately four million red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa) are released in Spain each year... more Approximately four million red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa) are released in Spain each year for repopulation or hunting purposes, all produced on intensive farming facilities under a forced pairing system. We studied the ethological response differences between two types of red-legged partridges couples: free and forced, using an experimental protocol with two groups of 20 couples each one: (A) group of forced pairing, one male and one female randomly chosen were introduced in the same cage and (B) group of free pairing, a female had the opportunity to chose between four males, using as female choice parameter the time spent by the female near each male. The behaviour of the couples during the first week they were together was evaluated. Female red-legged partridges chose males of higher weight and this males display more frequently patterns of feeding and vigilance behaviour. In the red-legged partridge alert and vigilance behavioural patterns are closely correlated to other feeding and cohesive behavioural patterns that increase the reproductive success of the couple. There was not aggressive behaviour in the free couples and only 2 attacks in the forced couples. In conclusion to have the opportunity to choose a partner increase the display of patterns of cohesive and feeding behaviour that increase the welfare of the females red-legged partridge on farm, but the environmental conditions of this study were not able to demonstrate differences in welfare due to pairing methods because there was a practically absence of aggressive behaviour of the male in both pairing options. We consider the cage design and space allowance together with the pairing methods as important factors that should be study in the future to improve welfare of farmed red-legged partridges. # Please cite this article in press as: Alonso, M.E., et al., Influence of the pairing system on the behaviour of farmed red-legged partridge couples (Alectoris rufa), Appl.
European Journal of Wildlife Research, 2010
This paper studies the visits of wild fauna, the influence of vegetal cover and fencing at water ... more This paper studies the visits of wild fauna, the influence of vegetal cover and fencing at water site election, and consumption tendency in water troughs designed for small game species distributed in an agricultural Mediterranean area during the summers from 2002 to 2005. Red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa), lagomorphs (Oryctolagus cuniculus, Lepus granatensis), and other autochthonous species (birds and wild canids) visited water sources throughout the study. The number of visits by target species was higher than nongame. Lagomorphs preferred protected troughs (with surrounding vegetal cover) while partridges opted for open ones (without cover). Fencing had no effect on the visits of birds and lagomorphs, but it did reduce the visits of wild canids. Harsh climatic conditions determined an increase in water consumption in summer. Before designing a water trough device for this fauna, managers should consider that (1) target and non-target species could try to make use of it, (2) water points should be adapted to target species self protection, (3) fencing can prevent undesirable visitors (particularly predators), and (4) water requirements increase in the harsh moments of the dry season.
Poultry science, 2015
Aiming to produce game birds suitable for re-establishment purposes, we studied the survival and ... more Aiming to produce game birds suitable for re-establishment purposes, we studied the survival and behavior of 31 adult red-legged partridges reared by their natural parents in captivity (parent-reared) and 67 wild red-legs (35 adults and 32 subadults). Birds were radio-tracked and released in a game estate where management targeting small game species was conducted and shooting was not allowed. Survival of parent-reared partridges was shorter (mean 108 d) than wild adults (mean 160 d), though no significant differences were found. Parent-reared birds showed a longer escape reaction (mean 11.7 sec) than wild adults (mean 0.4 sec) and were mainly predated by terrestrial predators (52%), whereas the most important source of predation in wild red-legs was raptors (49%). The home range of parent-reared (mean 23 ha) was not significantly lower than wild adults (mean 27 ha). Nineteen percent of parent-reared and 31.4% of wild adults paired successfully, and we recorded 6 pairs in which one ...
Se realiza una primera aproximación sobre la situación y problemática de la liebre ibérica en Esp... more Se realiza una primera aproximación sobre la situación y problemática de la liebre ibérica en España con el fin de plantear aquellas actividades de fomento y mejora que debieran aplicarse para gestionar, de forma racional, las poblaciones autóctonas. Partiendo de un conocimiento básico de la biología y ecología de la especie es posible, de una parte, identificar los principales factores que inciden negativamente en las poblaciones silvestres y, de la otra, establecer las medidas que deben seguirse para su aprovechamiento sostenible como recurso cinegético. Dentro de este último punto se destaca la creciente tendencia a la introducción de la liebre en sistemas extensivos y semiextensivos de producción animal debido a la gran demanda de animales para la caza. En espera de futuras experiencias científicas en este campo se ha realizado una clasificación de los sistemas de cría existentes en España así como un primer análisis de su potencial productividad, con el objetivo de proponer a esta actividad como alternativa viable económica y ecológicamente asumible en aquellos entornos mesetarios y zonas desfavorecidas que reúnan las características mínimas para la crianza de la especie.
RESUMEN En este trabajo se realiza una revisión de las posibilidades que ofrece el agua electroli... more RESUMEN En este trabajo se realiza una revisión de las posibilidades que ofrece el agua electrolizada como agente de limpieza en los sistemas de producción animal, donde ha sido utilizada con éxito en procesos de desinfección de equipos y como higienizante del agua de bebida, observán-dose interesantes efectos sobre la fisiología y la sanidad animal así como en el rendimiento y pro-ductividad de los animales. SUMMARY The aim of this work is to revise the potential of electrolyzed water (EW) as a cleaning agent in animal production systems. EW has been successfully used in disinfection processes, as agent for sanitizing equipment and drinking water. Its effects on animal physiology, health and per-formance are also revised.
Chilean journal of agricultural research, 2014
ABSTRACT Feeding systems can play an important role, not only in beef farm profitability but also... more ABSTRACT Feeding systems can play an important role, not only in beef farm profitability but also in animal health and performance. Fourteen Avilena-Negra Iberica bulls, with an initial weight of 270 kg (SE 22.6 kg) and aged 223 d (SE 16.2) were used to study the effect of two feeding systems on ruminal pH and temperature and animal performance when calves were kept in loose housing conditions. Feeding systems were barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) grain-based concentrate plus barley straw (CONC) and maize (Zea mays L.) silage-based total mixed ration (TMR). Internal wireless boluses were used to collect pH and temperature values every 10 min throughout the measurement period (15 d). Diet did not modify (P > 0.10) average daily gain, carcass weight, dressing percentage, ruminal mucosa color, or papilla counts. Papilla width and papilla width/lamina propria thickness were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in TMR than in CONC animals. Time spent below ruminal pH thresholds of 7.0, 6.6, 6.2, and 5.8 and the corresponding areas under the curve were higher (P < 0.05) for animals fed under the TMR system. No significant changes were observed between experimental treatments in parameters related to ruminal temperature or estimated number of times that the animals were drinking during the day (P > 0.10). Although animal performance is not affected, feeding fattening calves on a concentrate plus barley straw diet can result in better rumen conditions than using maize silage-based TMR.
Archivos de Zootecnia, 2013
Con el objetivo de estudiar la distribución del consumo eléctrico a lo largo del día en explotaci... more Con el objetivo de estudiar la distribución del consumo eléctrico a lo largo del día en explotaciones de ganado vacuno lechero con diferente sistema de ordeño (espina de pescado, paralelo, automático (robot), rotativo, circuito de ordeño y tándem), se llevaron a cabo auditorías energéticas en 61 explotaciones de Castilla y León (74 ± 8,4 vacas, 2.284 ± 265,2 l/día y 29,3 ± 0,91 l/vaca y día). Se registró información sobre el tipo de explotación y sala de ordeño, producción de leche, número de animales en lactación, horarios, equipos asociados a la producción y detalles de la factura eléctrica. Asimismo, se midió el consumo de electricidad mediante la utilización de analizadores de red situados a la entrada de las explotaciones. Se calcularon los índices de utilización de la electricidad por vaca y por litro de leche producido, el consumo medio para cada hora del día y para cada día. Aunque el consumo eléctrico fue muy variable a lo largo del día, la mayoría de los sistemas mostraron un pico máximo de consumo a las 8:00 h. y otro a las 20:00 h.; el pico mínimo se registró entre las 12:00 y las 18:00 h. Los sistemas de ordeño automático tuvieron un consumo diario más constante, aunque, junto con el sistema de circuito de ordeño, presentaron los mayores consumos por unidad de producción. El tiempo de funcionamiento del sistema de ordeño y del tanque, así como la potencia y dimensionado de este último son los factores de mayor importancia a considerar para optimizar el consumo eléctrico.
Archivos de Zootecnia, 2013
Efficiency. Energy. Milking. Saving.
Research in Veterinary Science, 2013
Tap water alone (TW) or treated with 3% of slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) were used in... more Tap water alone (TW) or treated with 3% of slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) were used in this experiment to study its effect on water quality, blood biochemical parameters and milk yield and composition. Each type of water was supplied to one group of 10 milking ewes for 25 days. Weekly water samples from troughs were taken. On days 1, 12 and 25, milk yield was measured, and milk and blood samples were taken. SAEW reduced (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt; 0.05) bacterial counts (aerobic mesophilic, total coliform and streptococcus). Blood gases, biochemical parameters and milk yield and its composition were not affected (P &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt; 0.05). SAEW can be used at 3% rate as a powerful and economic agent for sanitizing drinking water for dairy ewes with no effects on animal performance.
Archivos de Zootecnia, 2011
Reproduction. Andrology. Sperm.
Archivos de Zootecnia, 2013
Se ha realizado un estudio epidemiológico para conocer la prevalencia de dos agentes infecciosos ... more Se ha realizado un estudio epidemiológico para conocer la prevalencia de dos agentes infecciosos comunes, IBR y BRSV, en 15 ganaderías bovinas de Lidia en Salamanca (Castilla y León, España). En 2006 se obtuvieron muestras sanguíneas de 286 animales, aparentemente sanos y sin problemas evidentes. Los análisis serológicos se realizaron utilizando la técnica de diagnóstico ELISA, obteniéndose una prevalencia por rebaño del 99,92 % e intra-rebaño del 85,29 % para la IBR, mientras que para el BRSV se obtuvieron un 82,23 % y del 89,69 % respectivamente. SUMMARY An epidemiological study was conducted to determine the prevalence of the IBR and BRSV in 15 bullfighting cattle farms from Salamanca (Castilla y León, España). In 2006, a total of 286 blood samples from healthy calves and cows were collected. ELISA kits were used to process the samples. The herd prevalence against both viruses were 99.92 % and individual prevalence were 85.29 % for IBR and for BRSV were 82.23 % and 89.69 % respectively.
The activity of 2 populations of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L. 1758), consisting of 14 ... more The activity of 2 populations of wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L. 1758), consisting of 14 adults (>9 mo of age) each (4 males and 10 females), was analysed over 2 consecutive years. Rabbits were captured in the wild and kept in 2 separate enclosures of 0.5 ha, with each enclosure divided into 2 zones: a smaller area where warrens were located (breeding area) and a larger area where food and water were provided (feeding area). Seven rabbits in each enclosure were individually tagged with a microchip (2 males and 5 females) and, after installing 2 detection devices, it was possible to identify which of the 2 areas they were located in and record the length of time spent in each. To regulate the size of the breeding population, young rabbits produced in the enclosures were captured and removed regularly. Considering the number of movements between areas and the time spent in the feeding area, a circadian activity pattern was found, reporting 2 maximum activity peaks coinciding with twilight (18.35% of the total movements, 6-8 a.m.) and daybreak (22.95%, 7-10 p.m.) while activity was dramatically decreased during the midday hours (1.86%, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.). Rabbits displayed a seasonal pattern throughout the year, with maximum activity levels during winter (45.76% of the total movements, January-March) and spring (42.91%, April-June), which could be related to higher reproductive activity at this time of the year as a higher breeding output was reported in June and September. The levels of activity exhibited by males (13.44% daily activity rate) were significantly higher than those displayed by females (9.80%). No significant differences were found regarding time spent on the feeding area in relation to season or gender. The average duration of each foray to the feeding area was higher during the summer, higher for females than males and higher during the middle of the night than the rest of the day.
Este trabajo fue financiado por el Convenio «Reproducción de especies cinegéticas autóctonas», en... more Este trabajo fue financiado por el Convenio «Reproducción de especies cinegéticas autóctonas», entre la Universidad de León y la Excma. Diputación de Valladolid RESUMEN Estudiamos el consumo diario de agua y la presencia en bebederos artificiales por parte de las especies de Caza Menor más importantes en España: la perdiz roja (Alectoris rufa, L.), el conejo de monte (Oryctolagus cuniculus, L.) y la liebre ibérica (Lepus granatensis, Rosenhauer). Utilizamos 5 abrevaderos en un área Mediterránea de uso agrícola, durante los veranos desde el año 2002 hasta el 2005. Cada abrevadero tenía 2 bebederos que estaban dispuestos en 2 entornos distintos, uno llamado despejado y el otro protegido; la diferencia estaba en la cobertura vegetal que rodeaba al protegido. Registramos las huellas y observaciones de los animales en los bebederos, para evaluar la presencia de las especies silvestres y el consumo de agua en cada visita realizada (n = 480). Encontramos que la Caza Menor y las especies no cinegéticas visitaron los bebederos durante todo el estudio, pero el número de presencias de la Caza (perdiz roja y conejo) fue superior a las no cinegéticas, como otras aves y cánidos silvestres (x 2 = 429.19, P < 0.05). El consumo medio diario de agua está condicionado por los factores climáticos (temperatura y humedad relativa), de modo que en los
Italian Journal of Zoology, 2012
Although the Iberian hare is important to Spanish ecosystems and a valued game species, little is... more Although the Iberian hare is important to Spanish ecosystems and a valued game species, little is known about the survival and spatial behaviour of the species, which are crucial for correct management decisions. This paper studies the survival, home range, probable causes of mortality and den-site selection for 23 wild Iberian hares Lepus granatensis. We used radio telemetry to monitor hares on arable farmland in north-west Spain where habitat management measures were taken, control of predators was carried out and hunting was not allowed. Survival for the period studied (300 days) was 13% and average home range size (MCP 95%) was 39.6 ha. Probable causes of death included predation by wild canids (52%), disease (13%), roadkills (9%), and unknown (26%) for hares we studied. The red fox Vulpes vulpes was the main predator, whereas no raptor predation was reported. Den-site selection was affected by habitat type and hares showed a high preference for uncultivated land. Home range size tended to decrease when hares selected uncultivated land, grassland and lucerne, which were transition zones between shrubland, forest, and cultivated lands.
European Journal of Wildlife Research, 2010
This paper studies the visits of wild fauna, the influence of vegetal cover and fencing at water ... more This paper studies the visits of wild fauna, the influence of vegetal cover and fencing at water site election, and consumption tendency in water troughs designed for small game species distributed in an agricultural Mediterranean area during the summers from 2002 to 2005. Red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa), lagomorphs (Oryctolagus cuniculus, Lepus granatensis), and other autochthonous species (birds and wild canids) visited water sources throughout the study. The number of visits by target species was higher than nongame. Lagomorphs preferred protected troughs (with surrounding vegetal cover) while partridges opted for open ones (without cover). Fencing had no effect on the visits of birds and lagomorphs, but it did reduce the visits of wild canids. Harsh climatic conditions determined an increase in water consumption in summer. Before designing a water trough device for this fauna, managers should consider that (1) target and non-target species could try to make use of it, (2) water points should be adapted to target species self protection, (3) fencing can prevent undesirable visitors (particularly predators), and (4) water requirements increase in the harsh moments of the dry season.