Decline of Scavengers Poses Health Risks for Humans

The decline of scavenger populations poses a potential threat to human health and waste management, according to a recent study published in PNAS. Researchers found that 36% of 1,376 vertebrate species known to consume carrion are either threatened or declining, with half of obligate scavenger species classified as “vulnerable” or “critically endangered.” As larger scavengers disappear due to human activities like livestock production and hunting, smaller mesoscavengers like rodents and feral dogs may not effectively clean up carcasses, leading to increased disease transmission to humans. The study emphasizes the crucial role of scavengers in controlling disease spread and reducing waste removal costs, citing examples like vultures in Spain saving farmers millions in livestock disposal expenses. (Newser)