I am doing a caloric comparison of the main fruit that we found in raccoon diets locally (Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata), Oriental Bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus), Grape (Vitis sp.), Mulberry (Morus sp.), and Prickly pear (Opuntia humifusa)). I have found dry weight caloric values for Elaeagnus, Celastrus, and Vitis, I am sure I can find Morus but I haven't yet. the big problem appears to be Opuntia. I can't find the dry weight caloric content of Opuntia humifusa fruit in any of my references or on line. Can anyone out there help?
Dr. Russell Burke Department of Biology Hofstra University Hempstead, NY 11549 516-463-5521
