Patterns in the Scattering of Remains due to Scavenger Activity
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Abstract
In archaeological and forensic contexts, human remains are frequently found scattered. The recovery of these remains is often variable and inconsistent. There has been little research specifically to improve the methods applied to these contexts. This study attempted to discover patterns in the scattering of remains due to scavenger activity. Twelve human analogues (pigs) were deposited in wooded and open grassland environments; half of these were dressed in human clothing. For 103 days, each pig was monitored regularly. Data on the time and direction of movement of the carcass or any part thereof were collected and analysed for potential patterns. The results provide evidence for patterns in where, when and what is scattered due to scavenging activity. Near daily observations may be the key for discovering these patterns. Determining what influences this pattern development and exploring methods that specifically illustrate these patterns should be primary goals in future research.