Pronghorn (Antilocapridae)

Pronghorn primarily damage grain crops, winter cereals, and legumes, especially during periods of drought when natural forage is scarce. Herds of these ungulates are capable of significantly thinning stands of crops over large areas in a very short time.

The biology of these mammals is characterized by high mobility and the ability to travel long distances quickly. The breeding season occurs in late summer, and offspring are born in the spring, coinciding with the active growth phase of young agricultural crops, which are most vulnerable to trampling and grazing.

The nature of the damage manifests as complete consumption of green plant biomass, leading to total crop loss in localized areas. Furthermore, the constant movement of the herd across the field causes severe soil compaction and root system damage, which reduces overall yield potential even on uneaten sections.

Protection measures include the use of physical barriers such as specialized fencing, acoustic repellers, and visual deterrent systems. In some cases, agronomists apply repellents to the edges of fields to prevent herds from entering areas with high-value crops.