Mandibular Cavity Tissue As A Possible Indicator Of Condition In Deer

Preliminary data suggest that the fat content of the soft tissue in the cavity under the grinding teeth of the mandible might be a useful indicator of condition in deer. Seven physical characteristics were measured on 85 deer. Statistical treatment of these data suggest a strong relationship between the fat content of the mandibular cavity tissue and the condition of the deer. Three of the five best correlations were between mandibular cavity tissue fat and other characteristics related to condition. Simple means of mandibular cavity tissue fat separated out three condition classes of deer effectively. Further research on the subject is suggested.