Coprolites are the scientific term for fossil poop. Really. It may seem gross, but paleontologists can actually learn a lot from studying droppings about extinct animals’ diets, movement patters, and even things about their environment. Coprolites are sometimes identified by surface texture, size and shape, and even undigested food content. As all organic matter has been replaced with rock (See our Basics of Paleontology page for more info on fossilization), coprolites are not any less sanitary than any other fossil.
Coprolites are the scientific term for fossil poop. Really. It may seem gross, but paleontologists can actually learn a lot from studying droppings about extinct animals’ diets, movement patters, and even things about their environment. Coprolites are sometimes identified by surface texture, size and shape, and even undigested food content. As all organic matter has been replaced with rock (See our Basics of Paleontology page for more info on fossilization), coprolites are not any less sanitary than any other fossil.