How Long Does It Take Maggots To Consume A Dead Animal?

How long maggots remain on a deceased animal depends on their developmental stage and environmental conditions. Typically, these larvae infest the animal carcass for a period ranging from 5 to 10 days before they exit the carcass and begin their quest for a dry location to undergo pupation. During this time, while maggots may be unsightly, they are generally harmless. If left undisturbed to complete their life cycle, maggots will transform into adult flies in approximately 5 to 7 days. This process is a natural part of decomposition and plays a vital role in recycling nutrients back into the ecosystem.

The process of corpse decomposition begins swiftly after death. Initially, blowflies are the first to arrive on the scene, typically within a few hours after the individual has passed away. These insects are attracted to areas like the eyes, nose, mouth, and any wounds on the deceased body, where they lay their eggs. In just a matter of days, usually within two to three days, these eggs hatch into countless maggots, which voraciously consume the decaying flesh. This cycle continues until the maggots undergo metamorphosis and transform into adult flies, completing their life cycle. This phenomenon, studied as part of forensic entomology, sheds light on the estimation of the postmortem interval for investigative purposes. The information is accurate as of March 29, 2022.