Forensic Wildlife: A Review

Abstract

Wildlife crime, defined as the illegal capture, disturbance, ownership, exchange, or movement of animals and/or their derivatives, is a rising international problem that poses a threat to many species' survival. The ‘crime scene' in such investigations can range from an animal carcass to terrain with topography as diverse as woodland or desert, as well as a variety of natural and man-made structures. The location of a wildlife crime scene is frequently remote, with insufficient facilities for thorough investigation and evidence collecting. These characteristics may pose particular issues in poorer sections of the world and countries suffering societal turmoil. Working at a wildlife crime scene necessitates the use of tools, investigation procedures, and scientific technologies that are all suited for the situation and the best available. A combination of portable and easy-to-use laboratory equipment, as well as current data gathering and information transmission systems, is likely to be required for effective inquiry in the field. It is critical to use an interdisciplinary approach. These tactics can be used to combat wildlife crimes and punish those involved in the illegal trafficking of animals, flora, and fauna, as well as their products. Footprint analysis, morphological and anatomical studies, microscopic inspections of bodily components, and molecular biology techniques such as serological, mitochondrial DNA, rRNA, and protein analysis are among these techniques. The well-documented methodology and techniques, as well as their disadvantages and advantages, have been thoroughly examined in this review, and will undoubtedly aid the court of law and scientists working in this field to reduce wildlife crime rates through scientific investigations.