What is the major obstacle in resolving odor problems caused by smaller dead animals?

Locating the source is a crucial obstacle when dealing with odor problems caused by smaller dead animals. These animals can often be hidden in inaccessible places such as wall cavities, under floorboards, or inside ductwork, making them difficult to find. The odor becomes pervasive in these situations, leading to challenges in identifying the precise location of the carcass responsible for the smell. Until the source is located, effective remediation cannot be performed, and the odor may persist, complicating the entire odor control process.

While removing the carcass is also important, it is contingent upon first identifying where it is located. Similarly, identifying the species may be necessary for certain treatments but does not address the initial challenge of finding the carcass. Cleaning the area is part of the remediation process, yet it becomes relevant only after the source has been successfully located and removed. Thus, locating the source is the foundational step in effectively resolving odor issues related to smaller dead animals.