spraints

Spraints are the droppings or feces of carnivorous mammals. The term is most commonly used for the excrement of animals like otters, foxes, and civets. Unlike the feces of herbivores, spraints often contain undigested remains of prey, such as fur, feathers, bones, or insect exoskeletons. The appearance and composition of spraints can provide valuable information to wildlife researchers and trackers about the diet, health, and territory of the animal that produced them.

The scent of spraints can also be significant. For example, otter spraints are often deposited in prominent locations to mark territory and communicate with other otters, and they can have a distinctive, musky odor. Analyzing spraints can help scientists understand animal populations, movement patterns, and ecological relationships without needing to directly observe the animals themselves. This non-invasive method is a crucial tool in wildlife biology and conservation efforts.