What is the role of a forensic entomologist?

The role of a forensic entomologist primarily involves the application of entomological knowledge to legal investigations, particularly in determining the time of death through the examination of insect larvae found on decomposing bodies. This field leverages the life cycles of insects, especially blowflies and beetles, which typically colonize carrion in a predictable manner. By assessing the growth stages of these insects, forensic entomologists can provide vital information regarding the post-mortem interval, which is the time elapsed since death. This data can significantly aid in criminal investigations by narrowing down the time frame of a suspected crime.

In contrast, while analyzing crime scene evidence is a key part of many forensic roles, it is not specific to forensic entomologists, who focus particularly on the entomological aspects. Observing animal behavior involves understanding the actions of animals, which does not pertain directly to forensic science. Evaluating biological evidence in court relates to various disciplines within forensic science but again is not the specific niche of forensic entomology, which centers on insect-related findings.