What characterizes the warthog's diet shift when water bodies recede during the dry season?
Answer
Transitioning to drier, tougher plant parts like bark and dry stems
The seasonal availability of water directly dictates foraging patterns. When the dry season causes water bodies to recede, forcing warthogs to travel further to drink, their diet must correspondingly change. Since fresh, palatable grasses decline, they are compelled to rely on less desirable, tougher forage options. This shift involves increased consumption of structural plant components such as bark, dry stems, and roots that remain available. This transition is stressful on their digestive systems, which are inherently better adapted for the succulence of grass found during wetter periods.
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