Course Introduction

MODULE 1 – FORENSIC ENTOMOLOGY

In this module, you will get a basic understanding of forensic entomology, career opportunities it offers, and its scope. The module covers the significance of forensic entomology in crime-solving along with the classification of forensic entomologists, highlighting the varied role they play. You will learn how to use taxonomic keys as an insect identification tool, the significance of forensic entomology in legal contexts, and the limitations and challenges in forensic entomology.

MODULE 2 – INTRODUCTION TO INSECTS

This module covers insights about insects, their physiology and their role in forensic entomology. The anatomy of insects, key structures for identification, the structure and functions of the insect cuticle, their life cycle, the concept of metamorphosis, and the factors that affect insect growth, will also be discussed. The module also covers a deep understanding of how insects aid in forensic investigations.

MODULE 3 – INSECTS OF FORENSIC IMPORTANCE

In this module, you will explore different types of fly families significant in forensic entomology, including blowflies (Calliphoridae), houseflies (Muscidae), flesh flies (Sarcophagidae), skipper flies (Piophilidae), and moth flies and sandflies (Psychodidae). The module also covers different types of beetles, like carrion beetles, rove beetles, checkered beetles, and scarab beetles, along with an overview of other arthropods and scavengers. You will learn about diversity, life cycle, common species, and colonization patterns around corpses, for each type, and how they assist in forensic investigations.

MODULE 4 – ENTOMOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION AND EVIDENCE COLLECTION

This module will teach you the techniques used to collect entomological evidence, preserve it, and store such evidence effectively. You will also learn about the ways to determine the elapsed time since death using two key methodologies: one by successional waves of insects and the other by assessing maggot age and development. The module concludes with the study of the role entomology plays in different forensic disciplines and along with its legal consideration.

MODULE 5 – WILDLIFE FORENSICS

This module introduces wildlife forensic science, covering its historical significance, scope, and career opportunities. It outlines the qualifications needed to become a wildlife forensic scientist and the roles and responsibilities of experts in this field. You will learn about the concepts of wildlife forensics, along with its practical applications in conservation efforts, law enforcement, biodiversity protection, combating illegal wildlife trade, and ensuring ecosystem sustainability.

MODULE 6 – INTRODUCTION TO WILDLIFE CRIME

In this module, you will be taught about types of wildlife crimes, the reasons for their occurrence, and incidents involving wild animals. The module explores how wild animals can be both perpetrators, involved in incidents like agricultural attacks, predation, livestock conflicts, and road accidents, and victims of illegal wildlife trade, exploitation for traditional medicine, and the pet trade. It concludes by highlighting the role of wild animals as sentinels, indicating their role as environmental health indicators as a part of ecosystem monitoring.

MODULE 7 – TYPES OF WILDLIFE CRIME

In this module, you will learn about different types of wildlife crimes, including hunting and poaching (pit poaching, electrocution, shooting, poisoning, trap and snare, and digging), international wildlife crime or smuggling, examining the demand and supply factors related to products like elephant ivory, rhino horn, and tiger products, and the UK's specific demands. Additionally, the module covers domestic wildlife crime, involving issues like the illegal possession of pesticides impacting birds of prey, vicarious liability, and challenges posed by invasive non-native species. The module emphasizes the importance of prevention, eradication, and the development of a comprehensive strategy to tackle these issues.

MODULE 8 – CAPTURE AND HANDLING OF WILD ANIMALS

This module focuses on the process to capture and handle wildlife, animal barriers like snares, pits, nets, live traps, rockets, net guns, mist nets, and stockades, and methods for drug immobilization like the use of pistols, rifles, jab sticks, blowpipes, crossbows, dart design, responses, side effects, drug actions, dosages, and safety measures, along with potential complications. You will also get an overview of how to handle and transport samples safely, the significance of individual identification through behavioral idiosyncrasies, passive marking collars, branding, rings, and dynamic marking techniques such as beta lights and radio-tracking harnesses.

MODULE 9 – SPECIMEN IDENTIFICATION AND PROVENANCE

This module focuses on forensic biology techniques for identifying plant and animal specimens. It includes plant identification through morphology, vegetative and floral characteristics, wood anatomy, and connections to traditional medicines. Animal identification explores morphology and the role of museums in preserving specimens like skeletons, skulls, ivory, and antlers, along with techniques for identifying feathers and bird eggs.

MODULE 10 – DNA TESTING AND WILDLIFE CRIME

In this module, you will explore wildlife forensic DNA analysis, focusing on the collection and preservation of DNA evidence and DNA analysis techniques like protein polymorphisms, DNA isolation, purification, and quantification. Advanced methods such as RFLP, PCR, and SNP are introduced, along with emerging technologies. Additionally, the role of human DNA and the UK National DNA Database in biodiversity conservation is also covered, highlighting their significance in wildlife forensics.

MODULE 11 – MANAGEMENT OF WILDLIFE PROTECTED AREAS

In this module, you will gain insights into habitat management, focusing on objectives, resource studies, boundary planning, and management zones. It emphasizes communication, staff, and visitor amenities for effective habitat preservation. The module also covers management programs, including control mechanisms, wildlife strategies, and the interplay of tourism, finance, and conservation in forests. It concludes with strategies for sustainable habitat and wildlife management.

MODULE 12 – LEGAL ASPECTS OF WILDLIFE FORENSIC

In this module, you will learn about the legal framework related to wildlife forensics, methods to prosecute perpetrators to make them accountable for their illegal acts, penalties and sentencing strategies, policing wildlife crime, and the significant contribution of bodies like the National Wildlife Crime Unit, the Recording Crime Agency, and the National Crime Agency in wildlife protection. The module also explores the concept of civil enforcement, which highlights the importance of joint efforts through the Partnership for Action against Wildlife Crime. Additionally, topics like report writing, appearing in court as an expert, and recommendations to boost the ongoing battle against wildlife crime will also be taught.