Method for reducing aggression of game species of ungulates when kept in semi-free conditions in artificially created habitat

Abstract

FIELD: hunting.SUBSTANCE: used to reduce the aggressiveness of game species of ungulates when kept in semi-free conditions in an artificially created habitat. The method includes, during the period before the start of the rut from September 1 to September 10 and during the rut from September 10 to October 30, feeding a group of males kept in an enclosure a composition containing table salt, feed bentonite, feed chalk, propylene glycol, megestrol acetate, and potassium bromide.EFFECT: reduction of the aggressiveness of game species of ungulates when kept in semi-free conditions in an artificially created habitat.1 cl, 1 dwg, 2 tbl, 1 ex

Description

[0001] The invention relates to hunting, namely the maintenance and breeding of game species of ungulates in semi-free conditions of an artificially created habitat.

[0002] Semi-free-range management of game-preserved ungulate species, such as the European red deer (Cervus elaphus elaphus), the European fallow deer (Dama dama), and the European and Siberian roe deer (Capreolus capreolus, Capreolus pigargus), is an effective conservation method for these species, combining the preservation of natural populations with meeting human needs. However, the success of this approach depends on careful site preparation, competent resource management, and careful attention to each animal.

[0003] The rutting season (mating season) in game species of ungulates is the time when mating occurs, mating partners meet, and pairs form.

[0004] The European red deer leads a group and herd lifestyle. Social organization can be characterized as family-group, which is generally typical for most deer (Danilkin, 1999). Generally, groups are small (2-5 individuals), but in the autumn and winter, deer form larger mixed herds. Family groups consist of females, their cubs, and a male who joins them for the breeding season. Outside the breeding season, males remain solitary or form male (bachelor) groups (Fedosenko, 1980; Danilkin, 1999). Sometimes a group may contain several males, but only the dominant male participates in reproduction (Fedosenko, 1980).

[0005] During the rut, male European red deer become highly territorial, which increases their reproductive success. Rutting vocalizations are the primary marker of the breeding season in red deer (Nikol'skii, 1979).

[0006] For a population kept in semi-free conditions, this period has a number of features and causes specific problems of interaction within the group:

[0007] - Aggressive behavior in males: males engage in fierce fights with each other, attempting to establish territory and attract the attention of females. Such fights often result in injury and even death of weaker individuals. In confined spaces, aggression intensifies, as rivals find it difficult to avoid conflict;

[0008] - Dominance hierarchy: a clear hierarchy is formed within the group, based on strength and aggressiveness. The dominant male controls most of the females and the territory, suppressing competitors. Subordinate individuals are forced to make do with residual territories and fewer mates;

[0009] - Negative health consequences: High levels of stress, injuries, and physical exertion during the mating season weaken the animals' immune system, making them vulnerable to diseases and parasites. Young and weak animals are particularly vulnerable, as they are more likely to become victims of aggression from dominant males.

[0010] - Difficulties in monitoring and counting: Aggressive behavior makes it difficult to monitor the herd and count its numbers. The deer become restless and skittish, making the gamekeepers' job more difficult.

[0011] All this requires an adequate response from rangers, entailing more careful monitoring of the situation, intervening in a timely manner when serious conflicts or traumatic situations arise.

[0012] Thus, the rutting season has a significant impact on the life of the European red deer population kept in semi-captive conditions. Effective management of these processes requires a comprehensive approach, including regular monitoring, the provision of adequate housing conditions, and timely intervention in the event of critical situations.

[0013] In this regard, there is a need to develop an effective method for reducing the aggressiveness of game species of ungulates when kept in semi-free conditions in an artificially created habitat.

[0014] A method for reducing aggressiveness and stimulating the appetite of male large ungulates during the autumn mating season and a method for accelerating the growth of horns in male large ungulates is known [Patent RU

[0015] No. 2002106857 A, IPC A61K 31 / 565, A61K 31 / 56, published 10.02.2004], which includes the introduction during the mating season of at least one of the drugs 17β-decanoate-4-estren-3-one and 17β-cyclohexylpropionate-4-estren-3-one, each in an effective dose.

[0016] The disadvantage of this method is the use of anabolic steroids with a weak estrogenic effect in the form of intramuscular injections of an oil solution of the drug.

[0017] The claimed method allows achieving the stated result - a decrease in aggressiveness without stress in animals and large economic and labor costs, by using the developed bait (salt lick) consisting of a mixture of a synthetic derivative of the steroid hormone progesterone (megestrol acetate) and a sedative (calming) drug (potassium bromide) (megestrol acetate + potassium bromide) based on biologically active substances.

[0018] Due to the difficulty of implementing measures to reduce aggression in places where game species of ungulates are kept and bred in semi-free conditions in an artificially created habitat, in particular among populations of European red deer (Cervus elaphus elaphus), European fallow deer (Dama dama) and European and Siberian roe deer (Capreolus capreolus, Capreolus pigargus), a formula for a composition for wild ungulates was developed that can be delivered to wild fauna animals without difficulty.

[0019] The technical result is a reduction in the aggressiveness of game species of ungulates when kept in semi-free conditions of an artificially created habitat.

[0020] The technical result is achieved due to the fact that in the period before the start of the rut - the beginning of September (01.09-10.09) and during the rut - September - October (10.09-30.10) a group of males kept in an enclosure are fed a specially prepared composition containing the following

[0021]

[0022] The Drawing shows a screenshot of a video recording with a sonogram of the rutting activity of a deer in the control group on September 23, 2025.

[0023] As part of a method for reducing aggression, the bait (solonets) being developed with aggression-reducing properties includes mineral and medicinal substances. Thanks to its cation-exchange properties, it acts as a donor, supplying the body with macro- and microelements along with medicinal substances.

[0024] So the basis of the composition with properties that reduce aggressiveness is:

[0025] - table salt (NaCl) - sodium salt of hydrochloric acid, the main component of which is sodium chloride with the content of macroelements sodium (Na) - 39.34%, chlorine (Cl) - 60.66%;

[0026] - feed bentonite of the Tarasovskoye deposit in the Rostov region (Feed bentonite for farm animals and poultry (ecobentokorm) TU 9283-199-10514645-13-2013, [1]) - source of minerals (g / kg dry matter): silicon dioxide - 727.4, aluminum oxide - 115.6, calcium oxide - 13.3, magnesium oxide - 10.9, potassium oxide - 18.2, sodium oxide - 8.3, iron oxide - 5.0, iron sesquioxide - 41.4, carbon dioxide - 2.2, sulfuric anhydride - 1.6, phosphoric anhydride - 0.5. Bentonite feed in the bait (salt lick), in addition to being a source of minerals, also acts as a filler that reduces moisture and regulates density.

[0027] - feed chalk (CaCO3), consisting of, %: calcium - 37, phosphorus - 0.18, potassium - 0.5, sodium - 0.3, silicon and other elements - no more than 5.

[0028] - Propylene glycol (C3H8O2, 1,2-Propanediol) is an organic chemical compound used as a hygroscopic substance and as a carrier element or solvent.

[0029] - megestrol acetate (C 22 H 30 O3, 17-Hydroxy-6-methylpregna-1,4-diene-3,20-dione (as acetate) is a synthetic derivative of the steroid hormone progesterone. It reduces blood testosterone levels and influences the regulation of sexual behavior, reducing aggression, anxiety, and increased excitability.

[0030] - potassium bromide (KBr, Kalii bromidum) is an inorganic compound of potassium and bromine, used as a sedative to enhance inhibition processes in the cerebral cortex, restoring the balance between excitation and inhibition processes in the central nervous system.

[0031] Let us consider an example of the production of a composition for reducing the aggressiveness of game species of ungulates when kept in semi-free conditions of an artificially created habitat.

[0032] The composition for hunting ungulates is prepared using a simplified process. Take 200 g (13.33%) of feed bentonite, dry it thoroughly, and sift it through a sieve. Add 200 g (13.33%) of feed chalk and 600 g (40%) of table salt. Combine the ingredients in a clean, dry container of the appropriate size and mix thoroughly. Then add 150 g (10%) of propylene glycol, 50 g (3.34%) of megestrol acetate, and 300 g (20%) of potassium bromide in small portions, stirring constantly. Form the resulting product into briquettes. Leave the bait (salt powder) to dry.

[0033] The mineral, auxiliary and medicinal substances included in the composition were selected based on the physiological needs of the wild animals, the norms and timing of consumption.

[0034] The method involves placing the composition in the feeding area of ​​game ungulates kept in semi-free conditions in an artificially created habitat during the rutting season (from September 1 to October 30) and when males are especially aggressive. This involves placing the composition directly in the game ungulates' habitat, ensuring their contact with the product. This method effectively combats increased aggression in males during the rutting season without disrupting the game ungulates' natural habitat or causing them stress.

[0035] Stage 1. Determination of effective drugs and their combination.

[0036] The effectiveness of the influence of various means on the hormonal background of the population of male European red deer (Cervus elaphus elaphus) kept in semi-free conditions of an artificially created habitat was determined (Table 1).

[0037] The experiment investigated the pharmacological effect of drugs on the testosterone level of male deer:

[0038] - Group I - megestrol acetate - 2 mg / kg live weight per day - 7 days;

[0039] - II group - potassium bromide - 0.12 g / kg of live weight per day - 7 days;

[0040] - Group III - a mixture of megestrol acetate (1 mg / kg) + potassium bromide (0.06 g / kg) per day - 7 days;

[0041] - IV group - control without giving drugs.

[0042] The drugs were given with water once a day:

[0043] - dissolve the daily dose of the drug in 5 liters of water;

[0044] - drinking water after morning feeding after an 8-10 hour break.

[0045] Table 1 - Hormonal background of testosterone in the population of European red deer (Cervus elaphus elaphus) kept in semi-free conditions of an artificially created habitat, (n=4)

[0046] Group Animal species Identification method Testosterone, nmol / l before giving the drug (September 11, 2025) for 7 days of drug administration (09 / 22 / 2025) deviation I European red deer red collar 1,630 0,480 -1,150 II European red deer yellow collar 6,334 4,516 -1,818 III European red deer white collar 8,601 4,816 -3,785 IV European red deer green collar 2,410 2,540 +0,130

[0047] The results of the study of the effectiveness of various drugs and their mixtures show that the most effective combination of drugs is megestrol acetate + potassium bromide (Group III), the use of which resulted in the greatest decrease in testosterone levels by 3.785 nmol / l (Group I by 1.150, Group II by 1.818), while in the IV control group there was an increase in testosterone levels by 0.130 nmol / l.

[0048] Stage 2. Development of a composition based on the results obtained in stage 1.

[0049] Based on the results obtained in stage 1, it was established that the most effective combination of drugs for reducing hormonal levels (lowering testosterone levels) in the blood of deer was the composition of megestrol acetate + potassium bromide (group III).

[0050] The inclusion of additional ingredients in the composition of table salt, feed bentonite, feed chalk served to create a carrier for medicines, as well as a source of micro-macroelements of mineral nutrition into the body, to maintain all the necessary physiological and biochemical processes in the body of ungulates at a high level.

[0051] Megestrol acetate is a synthetic analogue of the natural hormone progesterone. It has antiestrogenic and antigonadotropic effects, suppressing the secretion of gonadotropic hormones by the pituitary gland and reducing estrogen levels in the blood.

[0052] Pharmacological (biological) properties and effects of use "Megestrol acetate", acting on the hypothalamic-pituitary system, suppresses the secretion of pituitary gonadotropic hormones - FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone). A decrease in the level of these hormones in the blood leads to a disruption of testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells in males, thereby providing an antiestrogenic and antiovulatory effect on the gonads of animals, resulting in the suppression of sexual desire and a decrease in aggressiveness (https: / / en.wikipedia.org / wiki / Megestrol_acetate) [2].

[0053] Potassium bromide (Kalii bromidum) is an inorganic compound in the form of colorless or white shiny crystals or finely crystalline powder, odorless, salty taste, readily soluble in water (1:1.7) and poorly soluble in alcohol. It does not decompose in air.

[0054] The drug potassium bromide has the ability to concentrate and enhance inhibitory processes in the cerebral cortex; it restores the balance between excitation and inhibition processes, especially in cases of increased excitability of the central nervous system (https: / / ru.ruwiki.ru / wiki / Бромид_калия) [3].

[0055] Used for animal anxiety and aggressive behavior.

[0056] Propylene glycol is a chemical substance, an organic compound, and a polyhydric alcohol. Appearance: a colorless viscous liquid with a faint characteristic odor and a sweetish taste. It is used as a solvent, binding agent, and humectant in the production of pharmaceuticals (https: / / ru.ruwiki.ru / wiki / Пропиленгликол) [4].

[0057] Propylene glycol plays an important role in the developed composition due to its unique physical and chemical properties. Let's take a closer look at its use in the developed composition with the following components:

[0058] - table salt: a source of sodium and chlorine, necessary for maintaining the electrolyte balance of the animal body.

[0059] - feed bentonite: a natural mineral with adsorbent properties, improves digestion and absorption of nutrients.

[0060] - feed chalk: a source of calcium necessary for the formation of bone tissue and teeth.

[0061] - megestrol acetate: a hormonal drug used to regulate the reproductive function of animals.

[0062] - Potassium bromide: used to stabilize the nervous system, reduces excitability and aggression.

[0063] Propylene glycol acts as a binding element in this composition. Its main purposes are as follows: binding and stabilizing components - propylene glycol has the ability to evenly distribute the components of the mixture, preventing their separation and improving the homogeneity of the product; increasing solubility - due to its hydrophilic nature, propylene glycol improves the solubility of solid particles in liquid media, facilitating absorption by the animal body; antibacterial properties - it has weak antibacterial properties, helping to prevent the development of pathogenic microorganisms in the finished product.

[0064] The benefits of using propylene glycol as a binder include improved quality of the finished product, increased stability and durability, and simplified production and storage of the composition.

[0065] The recipe and mass fraction of the components included in the developed composition were selected based on the physiological needs of the body of wild ungulates, norms and periods of consumption.

[0066] Stage 3. Results of the analysis of observations of the rutting activity of the control and experimental groups of deer.

[0067] To identify the dynamics of the aggressive state of experimental groups of deer, visual observation and recording of temporary patterns of behavior during the rut using camera traps are used.

[0068] Groups of deer of similar age and sex were kept in enclosures (semi-free conditions of an artificially created habitat). The experimental enclosure housed animals treated with various medications, including a specially developed composition that reduced aggression and sexual activity.

[0069] To objectively determine the effectiveness of the use of drugs that reduce aggression, it is necessary to be able to assess the degree of aggressiveness of animals in accordance with a special method based on the behavioral characteristics of the species.

[0070] The behavioral characteristics of ungulates are assessed by studying the temporal patterns of the subject's behavior. A temporal pattern is defined as a consistently repeating, non-random sequence of events (behavioral elements) over time.

[0071] In this regard, researchers identify the following patterns of aggressive behavior:

[0072] - frequency of rutting calls (both butts and single ones) of males;

[0073] - display of horns by males;

[0074] - rearing up (both males and females) and striking with the forelimbs;

[0075] - direct clashes of horns with opponents;

[0076] - ritual "battles" with trees - males hit trees with their horns;

[0077] - marking territory: deer leave scent trails, rub against trees and kick up the ground with their hooves.

[0078] Observations were carried out in two enclosures located in the Aleksandrovsky POOU FSBI "FCVIIOR" from September 22 to September 28, 2025.

[0079] Enclosure No. 1 contained experimental groups of males (Groups I, II and III) that received drugs (including the developed composition that Group III received) that helped reduce hormonal levels, rutting activity and aggressiveness in animals.

[0080] The control group (IV group) that did not receive the drugs was kept in enclosure No. 3.

[0081] Experimental animals were marked with colored collars (Group I - red collar, Group II - yellow collar, Group III - white collar, which received the composition according to the claimed method and Group IV - green collar).

[0082] During observations, photo and video recording of behavioral patterns was carried out with sonograms being recorded.

[0083] Comparison of elements of rutting activity (aggressive interactions) of the control and experimental groups is given in Table 2.

[0084] Table 2 - Comparison of the frequency of aggressive interactions (rutting activity) of male deer in groups.

[0085] Patterns of aggressive behavior Group (collar) 22.09.25 23.09.25 24.09.25 25.09.25 26.09.25 27.09.25 28.09.25 morning evening morning evening morning evening morning evening morning evening morning evening morning evening Frequency of rutting calls Group I (red) 2 1 3 5 10 6 10 8 10 7 15 14 20 15 Group II (yellow) 10 7 11 10 12 10 10 8 11 8 15 14 20 20 Group III (white) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Group IV (green) 18 12 20 15 20 17 22 20 20 20 20 18 25 20 Display of antlers by males Group I (red) - 1 1 3 5 2 2 2 3 1 8 8 10 8 Group II (yellow) 2 1 2 3 5 2 2 2 5 4 8 8 10 8 Group III (white) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Group IV (green) 5 3 6 7 6 5 8 5 7 5 10 8 12 10 Rearing up Group I (red) - 1 - 1 1 - 2 0 1 1 5 3 6 5 Group II (yellow) - 1 - 1 1 - 2 - 2 1 5 3 6 5 Group III (white) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Group IV (green) - 1 1 2 3 2 4 2 2 1 5 3 6 5 Direct clashes of horns Group I (red) 1 - 1 1 1 1 3 1 2 2 5 5 7 5 Group II (yellow) 1 - 1 1 1 1 3 1 3 3 7 5 7 6 Group III (white) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Group IV (green) 1 - 1 2 2 2 3 2 3 3 7 5 8 6 Ritual "battles" with trees Group I (red) - 1 1 - 1 1 2 1 2 2 7 7 10 7 Group II (yellow) - 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 2 2 8 7 10 5 Group III (white) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Group IV (green) - 1 1 1 3 2 2 2 4 4 8 7 10 9 Marking the territory Group I (red) 3 4 4 5 5 2 3 2 3 3 9 6 10 6 Group II (yellow) 5 4 7 5 5 2 3 2 4 3 8 6 12 7 Group III (white) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Group IV (green) 9 8 10 11 11 9 10 9 12 9 10 10 12 7

[0086] When observing the deer's behavior, a video recording with a sonogram was made. An example of such a recording is shown in the Drawing.

[0087] A comparison of rutting activity elements in the experimental and control groups revealed that animals exposed to the drugs expressed vocal responses 1.6 times less frequently than deer in the control group. Meanwhile, in Group III, which was given the composition according to the claimed method, rutting activity (aggressive interactions) such as antler display, antler clashes, antler "battles" with trees, rearing, rutting calls, and territorial marking were completely absent, demonstrating a reduction in aggressiveness in animals kept in semi-free conditions in an artificially created habitat.

[0088] List of references

[0089] 1. Zelenkova, G. A. Feed bentonite for farm animals and poultry (ecobentokorm) Technical conditions TU 9283-199-10514645-13-2013: Technical conditions TU 9283-199-10514645-13-2013 / G. A. Zelenkova, I. F. Gorlov. - Volgograd: Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution "Volga Region Research Institute for the Production and Processing of Meat and Dairy Products", 2013. - 9 p. - EDN TNSOTV.

[0090] 2. Megestrol acetate - Wikipedia - URL: https: / / en.wikipedia.org / wiki / Megestrol_acetate (accessed: 01.08.2025)

[0091] 3. Potassium bromide: composition, structure, application - RUWIKI - URL: https: / / ru.ruwiki.ru / wiki / Бромид_калия (date of access: 01.08.2025)

[0092] 4. Propylene glycol: composition, structure, application - RUWIKI - URL: https: / / ru.ruwiki.ru / wiki / Пропиленгликол (date accessed: 01.08.2025)

[0093] 5. Danilkin, A.A. Mammals of Russia and adjacent regions. Deer. / A.A. Danilkin - M: GEOS, 1999. - 552 p.

[0094] 6. Fedosenko, A.K. Maral (ecology, behavior, economic value) / A.K. Fedosenko. - Alma-Ata: Nauka, 1980. - 200 s.

[0095] 7. Nikolsky, A.A. Geographical variability of the signs of the mating cry of male real deer / A.A. Nikolsky, O.B. Pereladova, M.V. Rutovskaya, N.A. Formozov / / Bulletin MOIP, Department of Biology. - 1979. - T. 84. - No 6. - P. 46-55.

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