Project Experience: Rodent Droppings Analyzed

Rodent droppings can harbor pathogens and transmit them to humans. Sometimes it is hard to differentiate droppings from other materials or dirt. Suspected rodent dropping on a pizza were analyzed in our lab for rat and mouse specific DNA. We were able to confirm that the dropping were from a rat. On another project, animal droppings were found on the floor of a living room. The homeowner was concerned and did not know what made the droppings. She suspected some small animal invaded her house and left the droppings. DNA analysis showed that the droppings were neither from rat nor from mouse; indicating another small animal intruded in the house.