Wildlife forensic investigation

Providing an in-depth introduction to the rapidly evolving field of wildlife forensics, this volume first chronicles the history of wildlife conservation and environmental protection with an emphasis on its global importance in the 21st century. It then explains and discusses the crucial role of wildlife forensics in terms of investigating contraventions of national, regional and international legislation. The text focuses on wildlife forensic science as it relates to animals but also addresses plants and habitats because of their relevance to the conservation of animals. It also covers environmental monitoring and working with both dead and live animals.

Introduction

Types of Wildlife Investigation

Legal Considerations: International, Regional and National

Intelligence and Information Gathering

The Application of Forensic Science to Wildlife Investigations

The Wildlife Crime Scene

Field Techniques

Working with Live Animals

Working with Dead Animals

Dealing with Samples

Special Considerations and Scenarios

Collection and Submission of Evidence

Report-writing and Appearing in Court

Conclusions and the Way Forward

References and Further Reading

Appendices

Index