White-tailed Deer as a Taphonomic Agent: Photographic Evidence of White-tailed Deer Gnawing on Human Bone

What is it about?

Ungulates gnawing on bone has been reported in the taphonomic and zooarchaeological literature, but there is no known report of ungulates altering human remains. Herein, we report on the first known photographic evidence of a deer gnawing human remains. Forking of the bone characterizes the taphonomic effect of deer gnawing, which is distinct from the taphonomic effect caused by other scavengers. Deer gnaw on bone to obtain minerals absent in their diet. Here, we briefly discuss the distinguishing features of ungulate gnawing, the reasons for this behavior, and possible confusion with other common types of scavenging and modification.

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Why is it important?

First photographic documentation of deer as a taphonomic agent associated with human decompositon