About Fauna Identification & Analysis

Fauna identification and analysis involves identifying a species of wildlife, wildlife part, or wildlife product based on its physical characteristics. This is also known as wildlife forensics.

For example, species of smuggled birds (whether dead or alive) can be identified through their morphology; species of sharks may be identified just by looking at the shape and colour of the fins alone; and a piece of ornament can be determined to be a product made of elephant ivory based on the presence of Schreger lines. 

Fauna identification is especially important because it allows for a quick first-cut identification of a specimen, which helps inform decision making processes, such as whether the wildlife, wildlife part or wildlife product is illegal and needs to be seized. 

At the Centre for Wildlife Forensics (CWF), we are committed to the development of identification guides, investigation protocols, and diagnostic toolkits for investigations. 

Molecular Diagnostics & Analysis 

Molecular analysis plays an important role in providing information on the individual identity of the sample or the relationship among a population. The use of molecular analysis in investigations into the illegal trade in wildlife is becoming increasingly common, as species identification through morphological (physical) traits can be extremely challenging during wildlife trade seizures. 

Most of the products seized are usually degraded or highly processed and their physical characteristics may not remain discernible enough for identification. Therefore, forensic molecular testing provides an added advantage to species identification as it does not require intact samples, as DNA can be extracted from degraded and highly processed products for identification. 

The molecular analysis and research performed at the Centre for Wildlife Forensics primarily focuses on: 

• Development and validation of protocols to identify focus wildlife and timber species through specific DNA targets and genetic markers 

• Building and curation of reference libraries of various wildlife species with advanced molecular technologies 

• Analysis of genomic data for parentage testing and population studies 

• Development of capabilities in radiocarbon analysis to trace the origin and age of specimens through partnerships with local and overseas experts 

For more information on key endangered species, as well as the tools available to help identify them, please refer to pages below:

• Elephants 

• Pangolins

• Rhinoceros 

• Sharks and Rays 

• Songbirds