Energy reserves of the capercaillie Tetrao urogallus in finlan

1990

Abstract 1. 1. The size of energy reserves, distribution of fat stores and the fatty acid composition of subcutaneous and pericardial adipose tissue of capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) were studied in 12 adult birds shot in Sept.–Oct. and in 8 birds shot in March. Furthermore 4 captive birds were killed in Sept. 2. 2. A capercaillie male can maintain or even increase its body weight during winter, but as shown in the present work it is not a result of increased fat content. 3. 3. In general, capercaillie seems to contain more stored energy in the form of fat than other tetraonids so far studied, except Svalbard ptarmigan. 4. 4. In males total fat content in percentage of body weight varied o…