Combined visual and biochemical analyses confirm depositor and diet for Neolithic coprolites from Skara Brae

A groundbreaking analysis of Neolithic coprolites from Skara Brae, Orkney, reveals that domestic dogs were likely consuming human butchery or meal refuse, alongside opportunistic rodent consumption, potentially for pest control. Using advanced non-destructive methods—X-ray computed tomography, scanning electron microscopy, and lipid/protein analysis—the study confirmed the depositor as Canis familiaris and identified bone inclusions from Ovis aries (sheep) and Microtus arvalis (common voles). This approach minimized sample destruction while providing richer insights than traditional morphological examination alone. The findings suggest Skara Brae dogs scavenged or were fed human refuse, offering new perspectives on Neolithic human-animal interactions and subsistence practices.

Romaniuk, A. A., Panciroli, E., Buckley, M., Pal Chowdhury, M., Willars, C., Herman, J. S., Troalen, L. G., Shepherd, A. N., Clarke, D. V., Sheridan, A., van Dongen, B. E., Butler, I. B., & Bendrey, R. (2020). Combined visual and biochemical analyses confirm depositor and diet for Neolithic coprolites from Skara Brae. Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences, 12(12). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12520-020-01225-9