Fossilized droppings reveal ancient squirrels scavenged mammoth meat

A recent study examined fossilized droppings from ancient ground squirrels. The analysis detected traces of meat from large Pleistocene animals. DNA from woolly mammoths was identified in the droppings. Evidence also pointed to consumption of bison and saber‑toothed cats. The findings suggest the squirrels acted as opportunistic scavengers. Their diet included carrion from animals far larger than themselves. This behavior sheds light on Ice Age ecosystem dynamics. The study expands understanding of predator‑scavenger interactions in prehistoric habitats.