Redberry juniper (Juniperus pinchotii Sudw.) is a chemically defended, invasive brush
species in western states. Previous research has demonstrated that goats supplemented with
escape protein sources will consume a higher volume of juniper. In this study I attempted to
increase the intake of juniper by recently weaned, Boer-Spanish cross goats (n = 30) by
randomly placing them into four treatments and a control, and supplementing each treatment
group with one of the following amino acids: arginine, proline, leucine, and glutamine.
Treatments did not have a significant effect on juniper intake (P > 0.05). All goats increased
intake over time (P > 0.05). Goats exhibited significant weight gain over the course of the study
(P < 0.05). Blood serum metabolites were within normal limits. Future studies on escape protein
supplementation may provide a better understanding of small ruminant physiology in
relationship to intake of juniper