How do they know for sure ? that they are turds ?
2007-02-28 02:40:05 · 3 answers · asked by lisalau 5 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Zoology
Check with the expert on the subject, Karen Chin:
"When sliced into thin sections and examined under a microscope, coprolites may contain seeds, leaves, wood, mollusks, bones or teeth. The list, obviously, includes lots of the indigestible crud that carnivores devour. "
Also, if you are anywhere near Philadelphia, the Academy of Natural Sciences has a wonderful exhibit called "The Scoop on Poop" that talks about these and other issues in that same area! Wild and fun stuff.
"The Scoop on Poop
Wed Feb 28, 2007 at 10:00AM - Sun May 13, 2007 at 10:00AM"
http://local.yahoo.com/details?fr=dd-local-tl3&id=61346250&stx=academy+natural+sciences&csz=Philadelphia+PA&ed=t1BIb6160SySG_VXc4XB_ren3xJocIDKUD3vwibrcZtj639vrJ6Z3UjMDkbQstgXXaUPPslvM_0DpjyWbSLjyQ--
2007-02-28 03:14:12 · answer #1 · answered by Yahzmin ♥♥ 4ever 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
those wo can tell the difference between rocks and copralite is by the way they can be cut into. Fossilized Dinosaur droppings will show what they atte from plant matter from a herbivore, to small bones and other body parts from the carnivore.
2007-02-28 12:41:34 · answer #2 · answered by Velika 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think they view them under a microscope and can see like grass matter or tiny bones. of what was eaten, very similar to Owl Droppings
2007-02-28 10:48:42 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋