'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 Francisco, CA.
★ Chase, et al. The Scavenger Handbook. Bramblewood Press, Santa Barbara, CA.