Leah M. Vucetich

Unlocking the secrets in scat

I direct the Molecular and Foraging Ecology Lab. In this lab, we seek to unlock the secrets of scat. We assay the genetic properties of animal populations sampled via noninvasive techniques such as hair or scat and old bones and teeth. These techniques are primarily focused on the assessment of the genetics of Isle Royale wolves and moose. We also assess the diet of Isle Royale moose by microhistological analysis of scat, and the forage quality of Isle Royale moose by chemical analysis of forage plants. I also participate annually in summer and winter field operations for the Isle Royale wolf-moose research.