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Desert climates with low humidity not only decrease or obliterate fly and maggots activity, but can also halt other forms of decomposition. Very dry climates may cause a body to naturally mummify, converting its skin and tendons to a leathery and parchment-like wrapping surrounding the bones, while the organs decay by autolysis and putrefaction. Paradoxically, heavy rainfall also slows fly activity, including egg laying. Maggot activity, however, continues-but with fewer maggots.
El Cajon is not desert !
The environment is close to Texas hill-country in late summer. I've spent many years in both places (and 6 years in Connecticut, BTW).
Your "desert" is from books and magazines.
I'll check in the attic for "record-wash" --it might un-stick your needle. Maybe.