Introduction to Wildlife Forensics
Wildlife forensics is a sub-discipline of forensic science that applies scientific techniques, methods, and technologies to furnish evidence that can be used in legal proceedings to support wildlife law enforcement in the investigation and prosecution of crimes involving wildlife, such as illegal poaching, trafficking, and various forms of exploitation.
NEED FOR WILDLIFE FORENSICS
The need for wildlife forensics has grown due to an increase in such crimes, driven by factors like:
a) Demand for Exotic Species: Exotic species in the context of wildlife crime refer to non-native or rare species, often with unique characteristics, that are sought after for various reasons such as the pet trade, ornamental purposes, or novelty. The demand for exotic species can lead to illegal trafficking and collection, contributing to the decline of these species and disrupting ecosystems
b) Use in Traditional Medicines: Traditional medicines involve the use of animal parts, often derived from rare or endangered species, based on cultural or traditional beliefs. The demand for these ingredients fuels the illegal wildlife trade as certain animal body parts are perceived to have medicinal properties. This has significant consequences for wildlife populations as it can drive species to the brink of extinction.
c) Display of Trophies: The hunting of endangered animals for trophies involves killing them for specific body parts like horns, tusks, or skins. This contributes to population decline and poses a threat to the survival of already vulnerable species. The desire for these trophies is often driven by a combination of personal collections, cultural beliefs, and the pursuit of status symbols.
These illegal activities threaten biodiversity, endanger species, and disrupt ecosystems. Wildlife forensics helps law enforcement agencies gather evidence, identify culprits, and enforce conservation laws, playing a vital role in addressing the rising challenges of wildlife crime and contributing to global conservation efforts.
PURPOSE OF WILDLIFE FORENSICS
Several different applications are recognized within the field of wildlife forensics, such as:
Casework Analysis
The primary purpose of casework analysis in wildlife forensics is to provide scientific evidence to support legal proceedings. Successfully prosecuting crime against wildlife requires establishing the occurrence of a crime. This involves conducting scientific examinations of the evidence to address specific investigative questions, such as:
What species is it from?
Where did it come from?
Was it taken from the wild?
Does it match to a specific individual?
How old is it?
Casework analysis adheres to high-quality assurance and evidential security standards, making it an essential component in prosecuting individuals or organizations involved in wildlife crimes.
Traceability
Traceability in wildlife forensics involves using scientific techniques, such as DNA profiling, to track and verify the origin and movement of wildlife within trade networks. Traceability systems play a significant role in auditing supply chains, ensuring the legality and sustainability of wildlife products in the market. They contribute to the prevention of illegal trade and the protection of endangered species.
Intelligence
Wildlife forensics intelligence involves gathering, analyzing, and monitoring information to uncover patterns, track trends, and address illegal wildlife activities such as poaching, illegal trade, and habitat destruction. Monitoring techniques include field investigations, surveillance, undercover operations, informant reports, etc. Such applications are typically performed under a reduced level of quality assurance and therefore should not be relied upon to generate legal evidence, but may provide the enforcement community with important information to help direct criminal investigations.
ANALYTICAL APPROACHES IN WILDLIFE FORENSICS
Various scientific techniques and methods are used to analyze evidence related to wildlife crimes. The commonly utilized analytical approaches have been discussed below:
Genetic Analysis
DNA analysis is a powerful technique used to examine the genetic material of wildlife samples. It helps in identifying species, individuals, and populations by extracting DNA from various sources such as hair, feathers, bones, or blood.
For example: DNA analysis can be employed to determine the species and individual identity of a seized tiger skin, helping law enforcement link the illegal wildlife product to a specific animal.
Morphological Analysis
Morphological analysis involves the examination of physical characteristics, such as bones, teeth, and feathers, to gather information about the species, age, and sometimes the cause of death of an animal.
For Example: During the morphological analysis of the tusk of an elephant, the presence of growth rings or variations in tusk shape can provide insights into its age. The presence of specific cross-hatching patterns can help identify the species of elephant. The analysis may further reveal signs of trauma or injuries on the tusks, helping in understanding the potential cause of death, whether natural or due to illegal activities.
Chemical Analysis
Chemical analysis employs techniques to examine substances associated with wildlife crimes. This includes determining the source of materials like ivory or identifying the presence of illegal drugs used to poison animals.
For example: Analyzing the isotopic composition of the seized rhinoceros horns can provide insights into the geographical origin and assist in tracking illegal trade routes.
Digital Forensics
In cases involving online wildlife trafficking, digital forensics is crucial. It involves tracking and analyzing illegal activities on the internet, identifying individuals involved, and gathering digital evidence for legal actions.
For example: Identifying sellers, buyers, and trade routes on online platforms can uncover evidence of illegal wildlife trade.
Ecological Forensics
Ecological forensics involves studying the ecological context of a crime scene to understand the impact on local ecosystems and gather additional evidence related to wildlife crimes.
For example: After discovering a site where illegal logging has taken place, ecological forensics can be used to assess the impact on the surrounding flora and fauna, helping build a case against the perpetrators.