Forensics

The forensic investigation of wildlife crime concerns the scientific analysis of evidence recovered from a crime scene, from a seizure, or from the analysis of materials obtained from suspects. Wildlife parts or products often need to be identified to determine whether a crime has been committed; for example to determine the species involved; geographic origin of a specimen; wild or captive/cultivated source of a specimen; individual origin of a specimen; age of a specimen. In some countries, wildlife crime is now being treated as serious crime and sentencing guidelines have been introduced; when prosecuting serious crime and recommending a long custodial sentence, robust forensic evidence is required to support the case.

Our Approach

The Environment Team, through the Global Programme on Crimes that Affect the Environment, works closely with its implementing partner, TRACE Wildlife Forensics Network (TRACE), to support national authorities to improve their forensic capacity and to increase accessibility to wildlife forensic services. Support is provided through the development of guidance material, delivery of training and mentorship, provision of equipment and consumables, fostering networking and cooperation, and developing Quality Management Systems. For countries that do not have a lab or access to wildlife forensic services, UNODC and TRACE have established a Portable Enforcement Laboratory for Testing Seizures. UNODC also strives to bring countries and practitioners together, to open lines of communication and develop networks. For example, UNODC and TRACE set up the African Wildlife Forensics Network in 2015; it has gone from strength to strength, currently with members from 15 African countries.

United Nations

Office on Drugs and Crime

Wildlife forensics

Wildlife forensics

Our Approach

Our Resources

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