A nonverbal, severely retarded, 24-year-old female, who had undergone abdominal surgery due to pica (compulsive eating of inedible substances) participated in the study. Antecendent scavenging behavior was reliably identified and redirected. Pica was prevented by using a short duration physical restraint. Giving non-edible items that might be ingested to staff was reinforced. A modified fencing helmet was used as an adjunct to help control pica. Results indicate that scavenging and resultant pica were both significantly reduced. (CL)