Scat

Scat is a term used in various contexts, each with a different meaning. In ecology, scat refers to animal fecal matter, used by scientists to study animal diets and behaviors. In music, scat singing is a vocal improvisation technique used in jazz. This article will focus on these two primary uses of the term.

Scat in Ecology

In the field of ecology, scat refers to the fecal matter left by animals. Ecologists and wildlife biologists often study scat to gain insights into an animal's diet, health, and behavior. This non-invasive research method is particularly useful for studying elusive or endangered species.

Uses in Research

Scat analysis can reveal a wealth of information about an animal's life. By examining the contents of scat, researchers can determine what an animal has been eating, whether it's suffering from any parasites or diseases, and even its reproductive status. DNA can also be extracted from scat, allowing scientists to identify the individual animal that left it.

Scat Singing in Music

In the realm of jazz music, scat singing is a vocal improvisation technique that involves the singer using non-lexical vocables, or nonsense syllables. This allows the singer to vocalize tunes in a manner similar to a musical instrument.

History and Notable Artists

Scat singing originated in the early 20th century and is closely associated with jazz. Notable artists who have used this technique include Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Cab Calloway.

See Also

• Coprophagy
• Jazz improvisation