| dc.description.abstract | The use of coprolite brings out biological and ecological data such as species presence, diet,
behavior, territory, parasitic fauna, and home-range use, which can be applied for
conservation projects and support ecological research. Although new biotechnological
techniques allow for more accurate data, morphometric analyses allow for the primary
identification of the taxonomic group origin to support the best choice of subsequent analysis.
The goal of this study was to characterise at the macro level the dung of reptiles and
mammals at UWEC in order to aid in the identification of free-roaming wildlife species using
their droppings. A total of 52 samples of animal droppings were collected from the holdings
during routine cleaning of the holdings over the course of one week. The animals were
divided into three dietary groups, which included herbivorous, carnivorous, and omnivorous
animals. The length or diameter, shape, color, and content of the dropping were determined
and recorded in tabular form, and clear pictures of the animal species and their fecal matter
were taken. Categories of animals based on feeding behaviour included herbivores,
carnivores, and omnivores, and variations existed in the dung characteristics, with the rhino
and elephant producing the largest in terms of length and diameter, respectively, and the bush
duiker and impala producing the smallest in terms of length and diameter. | en_US |
