From Scat to SNP: Unlocking Prey Identities in Carnivore Diet with Dr. Charles van Rees

<p>In this Research Review episode, we’re joined by Dr. Charles van Rees to dive into a groundbreaking 2026 paper from Oregon State University (published in <em>Molecular Ecology Resources</em>). We break down how single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) panels and non-invasive scat samples (many located by detection dogs!) are allowing researchers to identify <em>individual</em> prey animals consumed by carnivores. Join Kayla and Dr. Charles van Rees for a crash course in genetics, filtering out mixed DNA samples, and what this means for understanding predator-prey dynamics in the field.</p><p><br></p><p>Host: Kayla Fratt</p><p>Editor: Sara Fangton</p><p>Sci-comm intern: Evelyn Combs</p><p>Guest logistics: Brooke Schoeder </p><p>Website: Meg du Bray</p><p>Patreon: Madison David</p><p></p>