Post-mortem Rodent Scavenging Artifacts in a Cachectic Deceased Discovered in a Forest Shelter: A Case Report

Determining the cause and manner of death when human remains are recovered from isolated outdoor environments presents significant forensic challenges, particularly when post-mortem animal scavenging has altered the body. Rodents frequently target soft tissues, producing distinct taphonomic artifacts that can closely mimic sharp-force trauma, ante-mortem assault, or foul play. This case highlights the findings from a cachectic, unidentified adult male discovered in an abandoned forest shelter during winter (ambient temperatures between 5 °C and 16 °C), where rodent nests and rodent droppings were found. External examination revealed extensive soft-tissue destruction across the right side of the face, including the cheek, periorbital tissue, lower eyelid, nose, ear pinna, and underlying muscles and vessels. The wound exhibited pale, irregular margins marked by fine nibbling and 1-2 mm notches characteristic of rodent incisors, alongside minor passive blood pooling from post-mortem vessel disruption. The estimated post-mortem interval was 24-48 hours before post-mortem examination. Diagnosis was established on classic gross macroscopic criteria, including pale wound bases and characteristic incisor striae, supported by the complete absence of vital reaction. The cause of death was determined to be severe hypothermia secondary to extreme exogenous starvation and cachexia. Accurately diagnosing rodent scavenging relies on identifying paired tooth grooves, pale wound margins, absence of vital reaction, and ecological scene context to distinguish post-mortem scavenging artifacts from true mechanical trauma.