WILDLIFE FORENSIC KIT COMPETITION

Nature FIRST

The Nature FIRST programme aims to achieve near real-time biodiversity monitoring, to detect changes and trends in a very early stage, and to translate predictions into actionable and timely interventions - to halt biodiversity loss and develop preventive capabilities for nature conservation. The programme’s focus spans four field sites: Ancares Courel in Spain, Maramures, the Danube Delta, and the Stara Planina Mountain, each hosting unique key species. The challenges to be addressed in these field sites encompass significant biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, human-wildlife conflicts, and poaching.

Wildlife Forensic Academy

The Wildlife Forensic Academy (WFA) is dedicated to combating wildlife crime through forensic science. Operating from a state-of-the-art facility near Cape Town, South Africa, WFA trains individuals in forensic science and methodical evidence reporting to ensure that wildlife criminals are brought to justice. Recognising the challenges posed by poaching and organised crime networks, WFA emphasises the importance of preserving and presenting forensic evidence from wildlife crime scenes effectively. Through hands-on training, theoretical instruction, and practical field experiences, students learn to conduct forensic investigations on staged wildlife crime scenes, gaining invaluable skills for real-world applications. WFA's mission is not only to protect and preserve the African ecosystem but also to raise awareness and mobilize global action against wildlife crime. Through education, innovation, and technology, WFA strives to connect people, wildlife, and the planet in a shared commitment to conservation.

The Problem

Wildlife crime poses a significant threat to biodiversity, with poachers and illegal traders targeting endangered species for their valuable parts. To combat this issue, rangers and other field personnel play a crucial role in apprehending offenders and gathering evidence for prosecution. However, many rangers lack the resources to effectively investigate wildlife crimes, such as collecting and analysing evidence, identifying suspects, and building strong cases for court. Nature FIRST aims to introduce practical and cost-efficient CSI toolkits and supporting instruments to address these challenges and increase public confidence in dealing with global environmental issues, particularly the decline in biodiversity.

The Wildlife CSI-Kit Competition

In collaboration with the Wildlife Forensic Academy, Nature FIRST is hosting an innovative competition. Four students from each university are invited to design a comprehensive Wildlife CSI-Kit tailored for gathering evidence at human-wildlife crime scenes. By fostering creativity and collaboration, this competition aims to develop practical tools that can aid first responders in the field. In this way, we empower first responders to collect vital evidence effectively, supporting the prosecution of wildlife criminals and bolstering conservation efforts.

By equipping rangers, civil guards, personnel tasked with safeguarding specific sites, and first responders with the tools, knowledge, and techniques of forensic science, we address a critical gap in capacity building and empower them to proficiently document and manage wildlife crimes, preserve evidence effectively, and conduct thorough investigations that contribute to strengthened case outcomes.

For example, toolkits allow for the collection of traces left by poachers, aiding in determining entry and exit points within protected areas. Similarly, it proves instrumental in investigating wildlife poisoning incidents, such as those affecting birds or involving illegal logging. The systematic accumulation of data on poison left in specific forest areas during distinct seasons becomes a crucial tool for narrowing down suspect lists and gathering compelling evidence. Ultimately, this toolkit enables first responders to take on a more proactive role in combating wildlife crime, acting as a deterrent to offenders and ensuring the long-term protection of endangered species.

The competition will unfold in several phases, from student recruitment to prototype design and evaluation. Throughout the process, factors such as cost, suitability, and practicality of usage are carefully considered. A panel of judges comprising representatives from universities, international field experts, and forensic scientists will evaluate the prototypes, ensuring fairness and transparency.

The Prize

The winning team of the Wildlife CSI-Kit competition will receive a unique opportunity to participate in a course at the Wildlife Forensic Academy in South Africa. This hands-on experience will equip them with the skills needed to preserve wildlife crime evidence and contribute to successful prosecutions. It's an invaluable opportunity to make a tangible impact on wildlife conservation.

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