For a successful scat survey, you'll need a range of specialized equipment. Start with essential collection tools like disposable gloves, sealable bags, and a sturdy trowel. Don't forget safety gear, including hand sanitizer, protective eyewear, and a first aid kit. Documentation is essential, so pack a camera, GPS device, and waterproof notebook. For proper storage, bring airtight containers and sterile vials with preservatives. Finally, field-specific accessories like trekking poles and binoculars will enhance your survey experience. This list covers the basics, but there's much more to think about for a thorough scat survey kit.
Essential Collection Tools
Three essential collection tools are important for a successful scat survey. First, you'll need a pair of disposable gloves to protect yourself from potential pathogens and maintain sample integrity. Always change gloves between samples to prevent cross-contamination.
Second, bring sealable plastic bags or containers to store individual scat samples. These should be labeled with unique identifiers, collection date, and location coordinates. It's important to use separate containers for each sample to avoid mixing genetic material or parasites from different animals.
Lastly, don't forget a sturdy trowel or spatula for carefully scooping up scat without damaging its structure. This tool helps you collect the entire sample, including any visible parasites or undigested matter that may be present.
In addition to these primary tools, consider packing hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and a small trash bag for proper disposal of used gloves and cleaning materials.
Safety and Hygiene Equipment
How can you guarantee your safety and maintain proper hygiene during scat surveys? It's essential to prioritize these aspects when working with animal droppings.
Start by packing disposable gloves, which you'll need to change frequently to prevent cross-contamination. Include hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes for quick cleanups in the field. Don't forget a small bottle of liquid soap and water for thorough hand washing when possible.
For your safety, bring a first aid kit containing essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers. If you're working in areas with potential wildlife encounters, consider bear spray or other appropriate deterrents.
Wear protective eyewear to shield against dust or debris when handling dry scat. Pack a face mask or respirator to protect against airborne particles and potential zoonotic diseases.
Bring a sturdy pair of disposable shoe covers or dedicated field boots that can be easily cleaned. Include a sealable container for storing contaminated items until proper disposal.
Documentation and Identification Gear
With your safety and hygiene needs covered, let's focus on the tools you'll need to properly document and identify scat samples. Essential items include a high-quality digital camera with macro capabilities for close-up shots, and a small ruler or scale bar to include in photos for size reference. Don't forget spare batteries and memory cards.
You'll want a waterproof field notebook and pencils for recording observations, location data, and sample details. A GPS device or smartphone with GPS capabilities is vital for accurately logging collection sites. Consider bringing a small tablet or lightweight laptop for digital data entry in the field.
For sample identification, pack a compact field guide specific to local wildlife scat and tracks. Include specimen bags, labels, and a permanent marker for collecting and marking samples. A magnifying glass or hand lens can help examine scat details.
To aid in species identification, bring a set of wildlife track and scat identification cards. These visual references can be invaluable when you're unsure about a sample.
Storage and Preservation Supplies
Proper storage and preservation of scat samples is vital for maintaining their integrity. You'll need a variety of supplies to guarantee your samples remain uncontaminated and viable for analysis. Start with airtight, sealable plastic bags in various sizes to accommodate different scat sizes. These should be clearly labeled with waterproof markers.
For long-term storage, you'll want to invest in sturdy plastic containers with secure lids. These will protect your samples from moisture and pests. Don't forget to include silica gel packets in each container to absorb any excess moisture.
If you're collecting fresh samples for DNA analysis, you'll need sterile vials filled with ethanol or other preservative solutions. For parasite studies, bring along formalin-filled containers.
To prevent cross-contamination, pack disposable gloves and change them between samples. Include paper towels or tissues for cleaning tools and hands. A small cooler with ice packs is essential for keeping samples fresh if you can't process them immediately.
Lastly, don't forget to bring a field notebook and pencils to record important details about each sample's collection site and condition.
Field-Specific Accessories
Field-specific accessories can make or break your scat survey. You'll need a few essential items to guarantee success in the field.
First, invest in a good pair of trekking poles. They'll help you maintain balance on uneven terrain and can be used to gently move vegetation when searching for scat.
A GPS unit is vital for accurately recording scat locations. Choose a model with long battery life and the ability to store multiple waypoints. Don't forget extra batteries or a portable charger.
Binoculars are invaluable for spotting potential scat from a distance and observing animals in their natural habitat. Select a pair with good magnification and light-gathering capabilities.
You'll also need a sturdy field notebook and waterproof pens to record observations. Consider a small digital camera or smartphone with a high-quality camera to document scat samples and surrounding habitats.
Lastly, pack a compact first aid kit tailored for outdoor use. Include items like tweezers for removing ticks, antihistamines for allergic reactions, and bandages for minor cuts and scrapes.
These field-specific accessories will guarantee you're well-prepared for your scat survey expedition.
Erzsebet Frey (Eli Frey) is an ecologist and online entrepreneur with a Master of Science in Ecology from the University of Belgrade. Originally from Serbia, she has lived in Sri Lanka since 2017. Eli has worked internationally in countries like Oman, Brazil, Germany, and Sri Lanka. In 2018, she expanded into SEO and blogging, completing courses from UC Davis and Edinburgh. Eli has founded multiple websites focused on biology, ecology, environmental science, sustainable and simple living, and outdoor activities. She enjoys creating nature and simple living videos on YouTube and participates in speleology, diving, and hiking.