scavenges

Scavenging is the act of searching for discarded or abandoned materials or resources, typically to reuse, recycle, or consume them. The term covers both natural processes and human practices, and its meaning varies by context. As a grammatical note, scavenges is the third-person singular present tense of the verb scavenging.

In biology, scavenging describes the feeding behavior of organisms that consume dead or decaying animal matter. Scavengers play a key ecological role by removing carcasses, aiding nutrient cycling, and curbing the spread of disease. Examples include large vertebrates such as vultures and hyenas, as well as invertebrates like carrion beetles and necrophagous flies.

In human affairs, scavenging refers to collecting discarded materials for reuse or sale. Historical scavengers salvaged scraps from markets, streets, and dumps; today it can include activities such as dumpster diving, scrap-metal collection, or salvage work. Scavenging supports informal economies and can contribute to material conservation, especially within the framework of the circular economy.

Legal and safety considerations vary by jurisdiction. Picking through waste or private property may be restricted or prohibited, and scavengers may face hazards from contamination, sharp objects, or hazardous substances. Ethically, scavenging intersects with issues of labor rights, urban planning, and waste management.