Oh poo! You've probably heard someone say that when things aren't going right. But for biologists who study animals, saying "oh poo!" might mean they've found just what they're looking for.
That's because poo, known as scat by scientists who study animals, holds a lot of information about the animal that left it behind. Biologists can use scat to identify the animal species, its food, and where it lives. Some biologists get clues about its health and a lot more. You can be a scat sleuth too, if you're not too squeamish.
Just like people, most animals poop regularly, if not every day. That means you can use scat to identify animals all year—even during the coldest days of winter. You just need sharp eyes and a little information to get started. Scat from some species like rabbits and deer is easy to find—look near wooded areas in parks or even the bushes around your house. You might have to wait until your next trip to the wilderness to find poop from bobcats, moose, and other secretive species.
Remember when looking at scat not to touch it with your bare hands or get too close. Animal scat can carry diseases, so if you have to pick it up, ask an adult for help and make sure they use gloves or a tool.
You can be a scat sleuth and learn to identify scat from many Minnesota animals.
