Wildlife Forensics and Combating the Illegal Trade
Wildlife forensics uses DNA analysis, isotope testing, and other scientific methods to identify illegally traded species, determine origins, and support prosecution of wildlife crime, with profound welfare implications.
Key Facts
The illegal wildlife trade is estimated to be worth USD 23 billion annually, making it one of the most lucrative forms of organised crime
CITES regulates international trade in over 38,000 species of plants and animals
Wildlife forensic laboratories can identify species from fragments of bone, feather, skin, or tissue using DNA barcoding
Isotope analysis can determine the geographic origin of wildlife products, helping to identify laundering of wild-caught animals through legal captive breeding
Forensic evidence has supported prosecutions in ivory, rhino horn, tiger bone, and pangolin trafficking cases across multiple countries
The International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime coordinates forensic capacity building in range states
Under-resourced wildlife enforcement in source countries remains a major barrier to effective prosecution of traffickers
Welfare Considerations
Wildlife forensics addresses the welfare consequences of the illegal trade by enabling more effective prosecution of criminals who profit from animal suffering. Every successful prosecution supported by forensic evidence reduces the profitability of wildlife crime and deters future offenders. Beyond deterrence, forensic methods allow enforcement agencies to intercept shipments and potentially return live animals to appropriate care. The welfare of intercepted animals is a significant challenge — many are in poor condition after stressful transport and require specialist rehabilitation. Building forensic and enforcement capacity in countries with high wildlife trade activity is one of the most effective long-term investments in reducing the suffering caused by illegal wildlife trafficking.
What You Can Do
Support TRAFFIC and CITES programmes working on wildlife trade enforcement and forensics
Avoid purchasing wildlife products of uncertain legal origin including traditional medicine ingredients
Report suspected wildlife trade activity to national enforcement agencies or TRAFFIC
Support funding for wildlife forensic laboratories in high-trafficking regions
Engage retailers about the origin verification standards they apply to wildlife-derived products
Donate to organisations building enforcement capacity and forensic infrastructure in source countries
Share information about common wildlife trade products to help consumers make informed choices