The impact of scavenging: perspective from casework in forensic anthropology
Year: 2020
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Forensic anthropology casework frequently encounters evidence of animal scavenging associated with fragmentation and loss of skeletal material. Published research demonstrates that patterns of destruction in bone can suggest the size and type of animal involved. This study analyzes 107 cases reported on by the first author at the Smithsonian Institution to investigate patterns of scavenging in forensic anthropology casework. This investigation reveals that the extent of scavenger impact varies across the body, but primarily is concentrated in the central body area. Although extensive animal scavenging can limit analysis, some evidence of foul play can be preserved.
Source: Forensic Sciences Research
Institutions: Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of Natural History
Language: English
Subfield: Archeology (arts and humanities)
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W3005313361