======Owl Pellet Dissection======


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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  *Follow instructions provided in the links below.



====Links==== 
How to dissect an owl pellet - Scottish Wildlife Trust: 
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Dissecting an Owl Pellet - Ramsey County: 
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📄 Owl Pellet Dissection - Science World: [[https://www.scienceworld.ca/resource/owl-pellet-dissection/]]\\


====Variations====
  * Visit a local owl sanctuary or rehabilitation center to observe owls directly.  
  * Use magnifiers or microscopes for closer observation of bones.  
  * Extend the discussion to local prey species and what their presence in pellets reveals about ecosystems.  
  * Compare results across seasons to explore changes in diet.



====Safety Precautions====
  * Use only sterilized, classroom-safe owl pellets (dried and treated to kill bacteria and parasites).  
  * Wear gloves during dissection.  
  * Handle dissection tools carefully.  
  * Wash hands thoroughly after the activity.




====Questions to Consider====
  * What kinds of animals do owls eat? (small mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, etc.)  
  * Why are bones and fur not digested? (enzymes in the stomach cannot break down these materials)  
  * What can owl pellets tell scientists about the owl’s habitat and prey availability?  
  * How many prey animals are in your pellet? What types?  
  * What owls live in your region? Are any of them endangered?  
  * Why might it be difficult to identify exact species from bones? (many bones look similar across related species)