Mineral content and wildlife use of soil licks in southwestern Nepal

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Abstract
Twelve species of mammals were recorded at mineral licks during the dry season in lowland Nepal. When analyzed for extractable phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium, and sulphur concentrations and pH, only sodium concentration and pH were significantly higher than in control soil samples taken in both sal forest (Shorea robusta), in which all the licks were found, and adjacent riverine forest and grassland habitats. The axis deer (Axis axis) and common langur (Presbytis entellus) were the most common species on the licks. Axis deer used the licks intensively in January, just after grass sprouting, while most common langurs were recorded in March, after flushing of browse species. Sodium appeared to be the main element sought at the licks, based on both concentration differences between licks and controls and the significant relationship between axis deer use and the sodium content of the lick.

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