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Turtle Coprolite Fossil – Eocene Fossilised Dung – Madagascar – Genuine Trace Fossil Poo with COA
Turtle Coprolite Fossil – Eocene Fossilised Dung – Madagascar – Genuine Trace Fossil Poo with COA - Image 2

Turtle Coprolite Fossil – Eocene Fossilised Dung – Madagascar – Genuine Trace Fossil Poo with COA

£9.96

All of our Fossils are 100% Genuine Specimens & come with a Certificate of Authenticity
Type: Turtle Coprolite (Fossil Poo)
Age: Eocene
Location: Madagascar
Size (picture scale cube=1cm): 22 x 20 x 15mm (0.87 x 0.79 x 0.59 inches)

A coprolite (also known as a coprolith) is fossilized feces. Coprolites are classified as trace fossils as opposed to body fossils, as they give evidence for the animal’s behaviour (in this case, diet) rather than morphology. The name is derived from the Greek words κόπρος (kopros, meaning ‘dung’) and λίθος (lithos, meaning ‘stone’). They were first described by William Buckland in 1829. Prior to this they were known as ‘fossil fir cones’ and ‘bezoar stones’. They serve a valuable purpose in paleontology because they provide direct evidence of the predation and diet of extinct organisms. Coprolites may range in size from a few millimetres to over 60 centimetres.

Coprolites, distinct from paleofaeces, are fossilized animal dung. Like other fossils, coprolites have had much of their original composition replaced by mineral deposits such as silicates and calcium carbonates. Paleofaeces, on the other hand, retain much of their original organic composition and can be reconstituted to determine their original chemical properties, though in practice the term coprolite is also used for ancient human faecal material in archaeological contexts. In the same context, there are the urolites, erosions caused by evacuation of liquid wastes and nonliquid urinary secretions.

ACTUAL AS SEEN: The image shows the EXACT specimen you will receive. The specimen has been carefully hand selected and photographed. Measurements are as accurate as possible, though be aware measuring precise dimensions can be difficult from irregular shaped items. Whilst we portray colours as close to life-like as we can, colours will vary if taken in sunlight, indoors, from monitor to monitor and device to device. Once this specimen is sold, we will update this listing with new similar selected item, with a new photo and dimensions.

(Actual as seen)

Only 1 left in stock

SKU: FP9984 Category:

Description

This listing features a genuine Turtle Coprolite fossil (fossilised dung) from the Eocene epoch, approximately 56–34 million years ago, discovered in Madagascar. This specimen has been carefully selected for its preservation and character, offering a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life and behaviour.

Coprolites (from the Greek kopros = dung, lithos = stone) are not body fossils like bones or teeth, but rather trace fossils. They record biological activity—specifically, an animal’s digestive output—and provide direct evidence of ancient diets and feeding behaviours. This sets them apart from paleofaeces, which can retain organic material; coprolites have undergone full mineralisation, often replaced by silicates, carbonates, and other minerals.

These turtle coprolites are thought to originate from aquatic or semi-aquatic turtles that once inhabited warm, swampy environments of Eocene Madagascar. Through fossilisation, they have been transformed into solid, mineral-rich specimens, with a range of textures and colours depending on mineral content.

Fossilised dung, while humorous to some, is scientifically important. Coprolites help paleontologists understand prehistoric food chains, digestive anatomy, and habitat interactions—making them as valuable as bones or teeth in reconstructing ancient ecosystems.

Item Details:

  • Type: Turtle Coprolite (Fossilised Faeces)
  • Age: Eocene Epoch (~56–34 million years ago)
  • Location: Madagascar
  • Condition: Naturally mineralised trace fossil
  • Scale Reference: Scale cube = 1cm. Please refer to image for full sizing
  • Certificate of Authenticity: Included with every purchase
  • Actual Specimen: The photo shows the exact specimen you will receive

Please Note: Some specimens may be gently propped for photography. Colours may vary based on lighting and display settings. Measurements are as accurate as possible but can vary due to irregular shapes. Once this specific specimen is sold, a new item of similar quality will be listed with fresh images and sizing.

This fossil is perfect for paleontology enthusiasts, educators, collectors, or anyone with a sense of humour and an interest in prehistoric life. It’s a quirky yet highly educational piece of natural history that’s always a conversation starter.

100% Genuine Trace Fossil – Professionally Selected – Certificate of Authenticity Included

Additional information

Era

Eocene
Origin

Madagascar

Eocene Information

The Eocene Period (56–33.9 million years ago) was a time of warm global temperatures and the rapid evolution of mammals following the extinction of the dinosaurs. The climate was hot and humid, with lush rainforests covering much of the planet, even near the poles. Mammals diversified into new ecological roles, with early primates, whales (like Basilosaurus), large herbivores, and carnivores emerging. Birds and reptiles also thrived, and the first grasses began spreading, setting the stage for later grassland ecosystems. By the late Eocene, the Earth’s climate cooled significantly, leading to the formation of the first Antarctic ice sheets and the eventual transition to the drier, cooler Oligocene Period.

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