Scavenger

Raven feeding on a small dead shark

Harvestman eating the tail of a five-lined skink

Scavengers are animals that consume already dead animals (carrion). Scavengers play an important role in the ecosystem by contributing to the decomposition of dead animal remains. Decomposers complete this process, by consuming the remains left by scavengers.

Well known scavengers include vultures, burying beetles, blowflies, and raccoons. Many large carnivores that hunt regularly--such as hyenas and lions--will scavenge if given the chance.

Animals which consume feces, such as dung beetles, are also referred to as scavengers. Animals which primarily consume dead plants (litter) are referred to as detritivores.

See also

• Carnivore
• Detritivore
• Decomposer
• Necrophagy
• Saprotroph

References

• Merriam-Webster's Dictionary

• Smith TM, Smith RL (2006) Elements of Ecology. Sixth edition. Benjamin Cummings, San Francicso, CA.

• Chase, et al. The Scavenger Handbook. Bramblewood Press, Santa Barbara, CA.