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Scavenging activity can produce predictable patterns in surface skeletal remains scattering: observations and
Yvonne P Kjorlien1, Owen B Beattie, Arthur E Peterson
1FMA Heritage Inc., 200, 1719-10 Avenue SW, Calgary, AB T3C 0K1, Canada.
Forensic Science International
|May 1, 2009
Summary
Scavenger activity scatters human remains, often along trails and away from people. Understanding these patterns, influenced by environment and clothing, aids forensic recovery efforts.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Taphonomy
- Wildlife Ecology
Background:
- Surface-deposited remains are often scattered by taphonomic processes in forensic investigations.
- Improving recovery rates of scattered remains is a significant challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect patterns in the scattering of human remains caused by scavenger activity.
- To inform strategies for enhancing the recovery of surface-deposited remains.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments utilized 24 pig carcasses as human analogues in wooded and open grassland environments.
- Carcasses were either clothed or unclothed to assess the influence of attire on scavenger behavior.
- Data collected included elapsed time to scavenging and directional movement of carcass parts.
Main Results:
- Unclothed carcasses and those in open environments showed earlier scavenger activity.
- Scattered remains were predominantly found along game trails.
- Movement of remains was consistently directed away from areas of human population and activity.
Conclusions:
- Scavenger activity significantly influences the dispersal patterns of surface-deposited remains.
- Environmental context and clothing affect the onset and patterns of scavenging.
- Consistent daily monitoring is crucial for understanding the development of scattering patterns in forensic research.
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