Wildlife forensics development programme being unveiled

The Scottish Government is to partner with Edinburgh University on a new programme aimed at using forensic science to fight wildlife crime.

Environment Secretary Roseanna Cunningham announced the move ahead of an international event on the issue being held in Edinburgh on Wednesday.

The new Wildlife Forensics Development Programme will provide a platform for international research and training in using forensics to detect and tackle wildlife crime, she said.

The partnership will create formal ties between the Scottish Government's wildlife DNA forensics unit and the university's research unit at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and the Roslin Institute.

Ms Cunningham revealed details of the project as the Society for Wildlife Forensic Science's symposium, attended by representatives from more than 30 countries, was due to take place.

The event, being held outside the US for the first time, focuses on how scientists can best-support wildlife crime investigations, from illegal timber logging and fisheries, to illegal wildlife trade and persecution on both national and international levels.

Ms Cunningham said: “As hosts to the UK's only dedicated wildlife DNA forensics lab, Scotland is leading the way when it comes to using forensic science to shape wildlife law enforcement.

“Forensics can provide evidence that an offence has been committed and plays an important role investigating trade routes and poaching.

“The new wildlife forensics development programme builds on Edinburgh's strong reputation for biosciences, taking a progressive approach that will strengthen the links between enforcement, policy and forensics.''