How does animals waste contribute to the nitrogen cycle?

Animal waste contributes to the nitrogen cycle by returning nitrogen to the soil in the form of ammonia and other nitrogenous compounds. As animal waste decomposes, microorganisms break it down, converting ammonia into nitrites and then nitrates through nitrification. These nitrates are then taken up by plants, which use them for growth, completing the cycle. This process is essential for maintaining soil fertility and supporting plant life.