An Arizona museum tells the stories of ancient animals through their fossilized poop

An Arizona museum is taking a unique approach to educate visitors about ancient animals by showcasing their fossilized feces. The Poozeum, located in Williams, displays over 7,000 samples of coprolites, which are fossilized excrement from creatures that existed millions of years ago. The exhibits range from small droppings to massive specimens weighing up to 20 pounds. One particular exhibit sheds light on the eating habits of the mighty Tyrannosaurus rex, indicating that it swallowed prey whole rather than thoroughly chewing it.

The president and curator of the Poozeum, George Frandsen, developed his passion for coprolites at a young age after purchasing his first piece of fossilized feces from a store in Moab, Utah. Fascinated by the stories they held, he recognized the significance of these ancient remains to better understand prehistoric life. Coprolites, though not abundant, often make up a significant portion of fossils discovered at certain sites. Over the years, researchers have gained more knowledge about coprolites' composition, helping to identify them accurately.

However, verifying coprolites can sometimes be challenging since certain sedimentary processes can create similar structures. It is crucial to differentiate between true coprolites and other geological formations. Despite requiring further examination at times, coprolites remain a significant resource in enriching our understanding of the prehistoric world.

Visitors to the Poozeum are fascinated by the unusual exhibits. An enthusiast like Brandee Reynolds, who mostly collects sharp teeth, welcomed the opportunity to explore the wonders of coprolites. Frandsen's collection includes a coprolite that holds a Guinness World Record as the largest specimen left by a carnivorous animal. Measuring over 2 feet long and more than 6 inches wide, it is believed to come from a T. rex and was discovered on a private ranch in South Dakota.

While coprolites might not reveal the exact creature that deposited them, they provide valuable insights into broad classifications such as carnivores and herbivores. Paleontologist Anthony Fiorillo suggests focusing on understanding broader food cycles within these groups instead of determining specific species. As an expert in the field, Fiorillo emphasizes the importance of sharing rare fossils and promoting public engagement in paleontology. He encourages young enthusiasts to explore quarries where fossils, including coprolites, can be found and to visit exhibits at nearby museums to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation.

The Poozeum serves as an intriguing destination for dinosaur enthusiasts and those eager to learn about the lesser-known aspects of prehistoric life. Through their extensive collection of coprolites, this small but captivating museum sheds light on ancient creatures and their eating habits, offering a unique perspective on the fascinating world of paleontology.