Social media users are captivated by a captivating timelapse video showcasing the remarkable and unsettling transformation of a decaying deer fawn over a period of five days. The video has been described as both terrifying and beautiful, as it provides a glimpse into the natural process of decomposition.
The harrowing journey begins shortly after the fawn is struck and killed by a passing vehicle. As time passes, the body stiffens as cells break down and ATP production ceases, halting any movement. The scene quickly becomes a feeding frenzy for maggots and flies, which consume the flesh and tissue of the deceased animal.
Over the course of at least 60 days, bacteria and fungi will decompose the remaining tissue, leaving behind bleached bones that are eventually exposed to the sun. The entire process is a testament to the circle of life and the vital role played by decomposers in returning nutrients to the ecosystem.
The timelapse was masterfully created by Owen Reiser, an acclaimed cinematographer known for his breathtaking nature films for esteemed outlets like BBC and National Geographic. His expertise in capturing the beauty and complexity of the natural world shines through in this eerie yet mesmerizing piece.
Reiser stumbled upon the lifeless fawn on a busy road in the St. Louis, Missouri area. Inspired by his professional experience in capturing timelapse footage for nature documentaries, he saw an opportunity to document the natural decomposition process. With the help of his brother Oliver, Reiser carefully moved the deer off the road and into the woods, where he meticulously set up his camera equipment.
To his surprise, the entire timelapse only took five days, a much shorter timeframe than anticipated. Reiser attributes this expedited process to the sweltering July heat, which likely accelerated the decomposition. However, the intense odor that accompanied the decaying process remains a memorable and unpleasant aspect of the experience, reinforcing the raw reality of nature’s cycle.
The timelapse video and its scientific significance were shared by the Instagram account Nature is Metal. They elaborated on the different stages of decay, starting with the “fresh stage” where the heart stops, blood oxygen decreases, and cells begin to break down. As decomposition progresses, the body changes color, while the production of ATP ceases, leading to stiffness in roadkill carcasses.
The bloating stage follows, driven by gut bacteria that consume the fawn from within. This stage produces gases like methane, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide, causing the body to swell and emit a putrid odor. Organs and tissues start to liquefy during this phase.
Eventually, the body cavity ruptures, exposing internal organs and releasing fluids that attract maggots and flies. These insects exploit the decaying flesh as a breeding ground for their larvae, nourishing them to adulthood. The timelapse shows the swift consumption of the fawn by these black insects, leaving behind only bones and traces of tissue.
After approximately five days, the body continues to decompose, and the maggots grow and feed until they eventually leave the carcass to complete their life cycle. The pupae mature into adult flies, sustaining the ongoing cycle of decomposition and regeneration.
This timelapse video serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate processes that occur in the natural world. It demonstrates the delicate balance between life and death and highlights the relentless work of decomposers in ensuring the continuous flow of energy and nutrients in the ecosystem.
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