How long can a deceased raptor be frozen before being delivered to the CPW?

In the context of wildlife management and conservation, specifically regarding the handling of deceased raptors, it is important to preserve the integrity of the remains for proper examination and research. Freezing a deceased raptor helps to prevent decomposition, allowing for a more accurate assessment of the cause of death or any diseases that may need to be studied.

The correct timeframe for freezing a deceased raptor before it is delivered to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is up to 20 days. This period is essential as it ensures that the raptor's body remains in a condition suitable for scientific analysis. If the remains were kept frozen beyond this period or not frozen at all, the degradation of tissues could compromise any investigation or findings that wildlife biologists or veterinarians might conduct upon receiving the specimen.

The other options reflect shorter or longer periods, which do not align with the established guidelines for handling deceased raptors in Colorado. Adhering to the 20-day limit ensures compliance with conservation laws and protocols designed to protect wildlife and facilitate meaningful scientific research.