ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 6

Estimating the Postmortem Interval in Big Game Animals
Daniel Edge, W
Wildlife research specialist, School of Forestry, University of Montana, MT

(Received 25 August 1983; accepted 6 March 1984)

Abstract

Methods for estimating the time since death in big game animals are needed to identify animals that are killed during illegal periods. Currently used methods include rigor mortis, eye appearance, carcass cooling, and potassium levels in the vitreous humor. The application and limitation of each method is discussed. The current state of available methods necessitates using several criteria when estimating the postmortem interval.

Keywords:
pathology and biology, postmortem examinations, big game animals, postmortem interval, rigor mortis, eye appearance, carcass cooling, vitreous humor potassium levels

Paper ID: JFS11782J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS11782J
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