FORENSIC INTELLIGENCE

Crime scene tape in front of a deceased rhinoceros and an investigator writing on a notepad.

Human-wildlife conflicts and wildlife crimes present unique challenges for investigators, as they involve dynamic outdoor environments and require meticulous analysis to overcome the absence of traditional forensic tools, such as DNA databases.

Through forensic intelligence and forensic science principles, essential information about environmental activities can be provided and properly handled, enhancing training for rangers, and ultimately contributing to the prevention of wildlife crimes through a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach. Wildlife forensics stands as a vital tool in the fight against wildlife crime, promising a future where the preservation of biodiversity is strengthened through the power of forensic science.

Close-up of a bear's paw resting on a log with visible claws and fur.

THE SCOPE OF FORENSICS

Within Nature FIRST, the scope of forensics extends through a comprehensive Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) process, embodying a proactive approach to wildlife crime detection and prevention. At the start of the CSI process, the emphasis lies on finding and safeguarding crime scenes, a crucial step in the preservation of evidence and subsequent legal proceedings.

As the CSI process concludes, the project emphasises the transparent documentation and explanation of the entire data collection journey, from storage and processing to the logging of additions and edits. This meticulous record-keeping is vital for the credibility of the evidence. The culmination of the process involves the responsible handover of evidence to the court, possibly accompanied by sworn witness statements, ensuring that the forensic intelligence gathered is not only robust but also legally admissible in the pursuit of justice for wildlife crimes.

Forensic investigator in gloves collecting evidence at a crime scene, near numbered markers, with a case in the background.

FORENSIC PRINCIPLES AND METHODOLOGIES

The meticulous documentation of these crime scenes, coupled with the secure handling of evidence through proper collection, storage, and data processing, ensures the integrity of the forensic process. Nature FIRST also seeks to introduce supporting instruments and CSI toolkits to enhance the efficiency of these operations.

By integrating forensic science principles into fieldwork conducted by rangers and personnel responsible for safeguarding specific field sites, Nature FIRST enhances its capacity to address wildlife crimes effectively.

A group of six people standing indoors near a lying giraffe, marked with yellow evidence numbers, in a simulation or exhibit resembling a crime scene. They are in a space with a high ceiling and natural light.

TRAINING PROGRAMMES

In collaboration with Wildlife Forensic Academy, the project is developing comprehensive training programmes for field partners. The process includes needs assessments and sophisticated mock scenarios, underscoring the project's commitment to equipping field sites, natural area managers and individuals with the necessary tools and protocols for thorough wildlife investigations.

Logo of the European Wildlife Forensic Network with a stylized fingerprint resembling animal features.

The European Wildlife Forensic Network is launching soon, offering a dynamic platform for wildlife conservationists, forensic experts, and researchers. This network will provide opportunities for training, knowledge exchange, and public engagement to help tackle wildlife crime. By connecting professionals across Europe, we aim to empower the public and foster collaboration in the fight to protect endangered species. Stay tuned to learn how you can join this important initiative and contribute to safeguarding Europe’s wildlife through science, innovation, and community action!

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OUR FIRST AREAS OF APPLICATION

  • Scenic landscape of rolling green hills with scattered trees and mountains in the background under a blue sky with clouds.

    MARAMURES TRANSBOUNDARY AREA

    Continental/Alpine regions - Romania and Ukraine

    This field site is located in the Carpathian Mountains, the last region in Europe to support populations of large carnivores such as brown bears, wolves, lynxes and jackals. The main challenges are illegal logging, poaching, infrastructure development.

    Credit image: flickr Mihai Lucîț

  • Aerial view of a vast wetland landscape with water bodies and patches of greenery.

    DANUBE DELTA

    Steppic and Black Sea regions - Romania

    A Natura 2000 site that has original natural features. This field site contains unique river and wetland resources. It is also the habitat and migration corridor for the endangered colonial birds and sturgeon species. The main challenges are poaching, unsustainable tourism.

    Credit image: Maria Krommyda (distributed via imaggeo.egu.eu)

  • Scenic view of lush green mountains and valleys with scattered trees and a distant mountain peak under a clear sky.

    ANCARES-COUREL

    Atlantic/Mediterranean biogeographic regions - Spain

    A Natura 2000 site in Northwest Spain, Galicia. This field site has high biodiversity and is inhabited by 150 endangered species. The main challenges are abandonment of farmland, intensification of agriculture, human-wildlife conflicts.

    Credit Image: Flickr José Antonio Gil Martínez

  • Mountain landscape with rocky peaks, green vegetation, and a cloudy blue sky

    STARA PLANINA MOUNTAIN

    Alpine/Continental regions - Bulgaria

    A part of the Central Balkan National Park. This field site falls into three climate zones at the same time. It is inhabited by 80 protected species.

    The main challenges are intensification of agriculture, human-wildlife conflicts, poaching.

    Credit image: Красимир Косев