Where is Coprolite found?

Coprolite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.

Where to find Coprolite

Collecting tips

1. Look for characteristic shapes. Coprolites often retain the shape of the original fecal matter, which can be cylindrical, ovoid, or coiled. Spiral forms are particularly indicative of certain carnivores (e.g., sharks, crocodiles).
2. Examine internal contents. Breaking open a coprolite (if permitted and not a valuable specimen) can reveal undigested bone fragments, scales, teeth, plant fibers, or seeds, which are definitive indicators of its origin.
3. Consider the geological context. Coprolites are typically found in sedimentary layers that also contain other fossils of the producing organisms, such as bone beds or fossil-rich shales and sandstones.
4. Distinguish from pseudocoprolites. Pseudocoprolites are inorganic concretions that can resemble coprolites. True coprolites often show internal structure, inclusions, or a more irregular, organic-looking form, whereas pseudocoprolites tend to be more uniform and lack internal organic remains.

Quick Check

Color:

Variable (brown, black, gray, tan, reddish)

Luster:

Dull to earthy

Streak:

White to light brown (if phosphatized), or matching the color of the specimen if iron-rich

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