Fecal pellets from a commensal shrew (Suncus murinus) and a house gecko (Gekkonidae)

Examination of excreta pellets from commensal shrew (Suncus murinus) and tropical house geckos (Gekkonidae) showed several characteristics that were useful in distinguishing these pellets from those of commensal rodents. Commensal shrew pellets contained a large number of embedded insect fragments but no embedded hairs. Each shrew pellet was associated with a distinctive circular stain on the floor or container surface where it was found. Gecko pellets were composed entirely of tightly packed insect fragments with no intervening matrix. In contrast to both shrew and rodent pellets, there was no surface mucous coating. A small white body containing uric acid adhered to one end of each gecko pellet.