Seasonal temperature changes and local environment affect the disappearance of small bird carcasses in a Japanese cool-temperate forest landscape

Key Points

• Bird carcasses disappear more rapidly during warmer months, showing the effect of seasonal temperature changes on decomposition.
• In a cool-temperate forest, environmental factors play a significant role in the rate of carcass disappearance, with specific local conditions impacting results.
• Assessment of bird carcasses across seasons reveals that temperature and local ecology significantly influence decomposition rates.
• Understanding these patterns may enable better wildlife management and conservation strategies in changing climates.