noun
scavenger
SKAV-in-jur/ˈskævɪndʒər/
An organism that retrieves sustenance from dead or discarded matter.
A vulture is a scavenger that feeds on dead animals.
Etymology
The scavager collected tolls on merchandise; the office later involved inspecting and cleaning streets. Removing rubbish supplied the bridge to people who collect discarded material and animals that feed on remains.
In context
It is also a scavenger, feeding on carrion.
More examples
- Crabs act as scavengers, eating remains on the ocean floor.
- Gulls are scavengers that often eat discarded food.
- Scavengers help recycle nutrients by consuming dead organisms.
Forms
scavenger · scavengers
scavenge verb — Feed on dead or discarded matter.
Similar words
- carrion eater
- Specifically eats dead animals, rather than other discarded matter.
- detritivore
- Feeds on decomposing organic particles, often from plants and animals.