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Taphonomic Effects of Vulture Scavenging

NCJ Number
226885
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 54 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2009 Pages: 523-528
Author(s)
Nicole M. Reeves M.A.
Date Published
May 2009
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This study examined whether vulture scavenging significantly influenced the rate of decomposition of a pig carcass, the types of signature markings they left on bones, and how they altered the site during their feeding.
Abstract
This preliminary study shows that the scavenging activities of vultures greatly alter both the carcass and depositional scene. This could have significant implications when applied in a forensic context. In the current case, the forensic context was a summer in Central Texas, where a 45 kg/100lb pig carcass scavenged by vultures became skeletonized in as little as 2 days. The findings clearly show that American black and turkey vultures significantly accelerate the rate of skeletonization. All exposed carcasses were skeletonized within 96 hours of death, with the majority of flesh removed in the 24-36-hour period after death. This significant acceleration of flesh loss caused by scavenging vultures is significant when estimating an accurate postmortem interval (PMI) at vulture-modified scenes. Vultures also leave evidence of their presence at a feeding site. Over the course of feeding, vulture feces and feathers are often deposited at the scene. Also, vultures can leave identifiable markings on bone. Although these markings are linear, they are too irregular to be confused with sharp-force trauma. When these signs of vulture scavenging are present at a scene, an accelerated rate of decomposition should be considered in estimating the PMI. The study, which was conducted between July-September 2007, used three pig carcasses that weighed between 27 and 63 kg. They were placed outside in a grassy area in Central Texas. A surrounding fence prevented entrance by earth-bound scavengers, while allowing bird scavengers unrestricted access. A fourth pig carcass placed in a cage to prevent any type of scavenger access served as a control for the rate of decomposition. 7 figures, 1 table, and 16 references