Waste to Wonder: Making the Most Out of Dung

When we eat, food passes through the digestive system, and any indigestible or unnecessary remnants are eventually expelled as faeces. This is also true for most animals, not just humans. However, while humans often find faeces repulsive due to their unpleasant odour, many animals see dung as a valuable resource and make the most of whatever little value remains in it!

‍Marking Territory

Due to its strong odour, animal dung serves as an excellent tool for wild animals to mark their territory. Male hippopotamuses (Hippopotamus amphibius), particularly those living in groups, are prime examples of animals that use dung to assert dominance. They scatter their dung throughout their territory, leaving their unique scents to warn other hippopotamuses to keep away from their domain. Studies have found that the territorial marking behaviour of male hippopotamusesis triggered when, upon hearing unfamiliar calls of the same species, they become anxious about potential intrusions from males outside their groups. They also wag their tails briskly in the process to ensure the dung is flung in all directions, increasing the effectiveness of their marking.

Luring Prey

Burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia), found across the Americas, are aptly named for their love of living in burrows. They collect the dung of mammals, mix it with plant debris, and smear it around the entrances and pathways of their homes. Initially, biologists speculated that this was to mask the scent of their chicks with the strong odour of the dung, in order to keep them hidden. Later, further research evidence showed that this “dung coating” actually attracts arthropods. With prey showing up right on their doorstep, the owls can just rest secure in their nests and feast heartily!

‍Smelly Symbiosis

Dung beetles (Scarabaeus sp.) are the textbook example of a symbiotic relationship with dung. Although they are capable offeeding on carrion, they prefer consuming the dung of other animals and gleaning undigested nutrients from it. Some dung beetles even go as far as rolling dung into balls, using them as nesting chambers and laying eggs onthem, so their larvae can enjoy a smelly feast as soon as they hatch. While the life of dung beetles may be a little too “stinky” for some, they are nature’s silent cleaners. They also help to promote seed dispersal, and their contributions to Mother Nature should not be overlooked.