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What is Wildlife Forensic Science and How Does It Combat Wildlife Crime?

Wildlife forensics is an emerging field dedicated to the investigation and analysis of crimes related to wildlife. This discipline applies scientific methods to gather, analyze, and interpret evidence, aiding law enforcement in identifying and prosecuting those involved in wildlife crimes. Given the increasing rates of wildlife trafficking and poaching, wildlife forensics plays a pivotal role in preserving biodiversity and enforcing laws to protect endangered species.

What is Wildlife Forensic Science?

Wildlife forensic science is a specialized branch of forensic science focusing on crimes involving wildlife. It encompasses various scientific techniques to collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes, which helps link suspects to criminal activities, identify the tools used, and provide evidence of illegal wildlife trade.

The Importance of Wildlife Forensic Science

1. Linking Suspects to Crimes: Wildlife forensics can connect individuals to the crime scenes through DNA analysis, fingerprinting, and other scientific methods.
2. Identifying Tools and Methods: It helps identify the weapons and tools used in committing wildlife crimes.
3. Proving Illegal Trade: Forensic science provides critical evidence to prove the illegal trade of wildlife products, such as ivory and rhino horns.
4. Disease Detection: It plays a role in detecting diseases and pathogens in wildlife that can potentially spread to humans, ensuring public health safety.

Wildlife Trafficking: A Growing Concern

The illegal trade of wildlife products, such as ivory from elephants and rhino horns, generates significant revenue annually. Between 2016 and 2018, the smuggling of ivory was estimated to be worth $400 million, while rhino horn smuggling was valued at $230 million. Wildlife trafficking networks are well-organized and operate globally, posing a severe threat to biodiversity.

Forensic Techniques in Wildlife Crime Investigation

1. DNA Analysis: One of the most reliable methods for species identification and linking suspects to crimes. DNA from hair, skin, or blood samples can be matched to specific animals or crime scenes.
2. Microscopy: Used to analyze morphological features of tissues or bones to identify species and determine cause of death.
3. Necropsy: A post-mortem examination of animals to determine the cause and manner of death, providing crucial evidence in wildlife crime investigations.

Key Questions in Wildlife Forensics

1. What is this?: Identifying the species involved.
2. Where does this come from?: Determining the geographical origin of the specimen.
3. How and when did it die?: Establishing the timeline and cause of death.

Impact of COVID-19 on Wildlife Trafficking

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of understanding zoonotic diseases, which can be transmitted from animals to humans. The pandemic has also affected wildlife trafficking patterns, with some illegal activities shifting online due to travel restrictions. This shift necessitates new forensic approaches to monitor and intercept online wildlife trade.

Case Study: The Ivory Queen

A notable case in wildlife forensics is the prosecution of the "Ivory Queen," who was involved in a large-scale ivory smuggling operation. The case underscores the complexity of wildlife crime networks and the importance of forensic science in dismantling such operations.

Policy Implications and the Role of International Cooperation

Combating wildlife crime requires international collaboration and a multidisciplinary approach. Organizations like INTERPOL and TRAFFIC play crucial roles in coordinating efforts to tackle wildlife trafficking. Strengthening legal frameworks and enhancing the capabilities of law enforcement agencies to investigate online wildlife trade are essential steps in curbing illegal activities.