A team of researchers discovered that defecation duration is remarkably consistent across mammals, taking about 12 seconds regardless of size. Using rheometers and filming animals at Zoo Atlanta, they found that larger animals like elephants produce bigger feces but also have thicker mucus layers, enabling faster movement through the intestines.

Their study, which analyzed 34 mammalian species, revealed that body mass affects feces volume but not the time it takes to expel. The secret lies in an ultra-thin mucus layer lining the intestines that's more than 100 times less viscous than feces. This allows even massive elephant droppings to move at speeds of six centimeters per second.

Beyond satisfying scientific curiosity, the research has practical applications. The team used their findings about feces viscosity to design an astronaut diaper that won semifinalist honors in NASA's Space Poop Challenge. The diaper separates waste from skin contact, addressing a critical need for astronauts who must stay in space suits for extended periods.