Scatalog

Here's a quick and quirky identification guide to animal dung or droppings. Each animal group (carnivores, primates, antelope, rats and mice, reptiles, birds) is briefly introduced; but the main focus of this book is the photographs, mostly life-size. These images enable immediate identification of the animals responsible for the droppings. To confirm identity, summary tables give details of average width, length and typical contents of droppings (feathers, twigs, leaves, sand, etc.). This should become a recommended reference for rangers and field guides in the region; and it will be of use to anyone with an interest in wildlife, and even to those who simply enjoy walking in the wild and observing the tracks and signs they encounter.

Kevin Murray is a scientist with a passion for nature in general. He has an interest in how people connect with their natural environment and how one practises sustainable and self-sufficient living. He has written popular articles for various publications, including 'More to animal droppings than meets the nose' for Custos. He has spent 18 years walking in the bush throughout southern Africa, collecting and researching droppings.