ABSTRACT
Wildlife means the native wild fauna and flora of a region and includes any animal, aquatic or land vegetation which forms part of any habitat. Wildlife forensics is a relatively new field of criminal investigation which uses a multi disciplinary scientific team that includes a variety of physical and biological sciences. Killing wild animals that are protected from hunting by laws, is one of the most serious crimes investigated by wildlife forensic scientists. Knowledge of and respect for the collection needs of other disciplines will go a long way in putting together an effective analysis of available evidence. Crimes against wildlife encompass a wide range of offences, from the illegal trade in endangered plant and animal species to the persecution of birds of prey or the cruelty inflicted on some wild animals for sport. Combating wildlife crime is essential to preserve our natural heritage.
