Animal Signs: Scat

Animals are all around us – even in the city! One way to tell if there are animals living nearby is by 1) looking for animal tracks, and 2) the type, shape, and size of animal poop. In the science world we call animal poop “scat.” Many scientists study scat to help understand animal diet, behaviors, or patterns. The clues found in scat can help us conserve and protect animals.

When you are exploring any of the great trails Kansas City has to offer, exploring around your neighborhood, or checking out the Mr. & Mrs. F.L Schlagle Library at Wyandotte County Lake Park you can keep your eyes peeled for signs of animal scat.

There are usually three distinct types of scat: 1) pellets, 2) plops, and 3) tubular. These shapes correspond to the diets of the respective animals. You can expect herbivores (animals that eat plants) to have pellet-like poops. Animals that are carnivores (meat eaters) will likely have tubular poops which can be comprised of bones or animal hair. Omnivores eat both plants and meat and are more likely to have the “plop” like poop but can also have tubular or pellet poop depending on their diet and the time of year.

There are a couple of different common species who might leave a “surprise” behind for you when they’ve been in the area. Remember, it is never a good idea to touch or get too close to poop. Some animals’ poop can have germs and/or parasites that can harm people or pets.

Below are a few common species (and their poops) that you might expect to find around town. Have you seen any of these before?

*Warning! There are images of animal poop below. Stop reading now if you are feeling squeamish.*

Cottontail Rabbit – Forms small pellets in piles. They are about the size of an M&M. Scat is typically found in the same location where the rabbits eat.

White-tailed deer – Also forms pellets clumped together. About the size of chocolate covered almonds. The size of the poop is proportional to the size of the deer. For hunters poop is a good indication that an animal may be living or grazing nearby.

Raccoon – Can form plops or tapered poops depending on diet and season. Groups of raccoons tend to poop in the same area known as a raccoon latrine. These latrines tend to be high up – on roofs or in attics. Raccoon scat is dangerous because parasitic roundworms are found in their scat. If inhaled, the roundworm can cause neurological disorders including loss of vision and death. Be very careful when observing raccoon scat.

Coyote – Can form plops or tapered poops depending on diet and season. In winter, coyote scat will be comprised mostly of animal hair and bones. They often poop in areas that are visible, like roads or trails, as a way to mark their territory.

Observing poop can be very interesting and give us great insights into what is in an animal’s diet. Again, remember that some diseases can be contracted by looking at animal poop, so take extreme caution or consider wearing gloves and a mask.

For more information on animals and their poop, check out these titles available in the Kansas City, Kansas library system: