I live in a suburb of Boston, about 20 miles outside the city. It is not densely developed here and there are farmlands and woodlands is this area. I see deer, coyotes, rabbits, possums, raccoons etc. pretty regularly.
The back of my lot is pretty wild and overgrown (mostly with invasives, unfortunately). I found this pile of poop back there last week. It is a fairly large pile, about six inches across. Any idea what animal made this excrement? Thanks...
Could be a "sick" animal...most often with some pathogen like GIARDIA which can be transferred to humans or pets through contact. Obviously you aren't going to touch it on purpose but just be wary that sickness is a distinct possibility esp. if you have any pets that also access this area. Our dog had Giardia and it's something you don't wish on your WORST enemy. If pets are sniffing around or even eating animal excrement they are in a position to get diseases carried in the intestinal tract of wild animals. I would be inclined to take a shovel out there and cover over it with fresh soil IF you have a pet who roams in the area.
Likely raccoon or oppossum. knottyceltic is right--NEVER touch scat, regardless of who or what left it. If you must remove it, use a plastic bag and dispose, or bury it somewhere that you won't be digging or gardening. BlueBars
