DNA typing of non-human DNA is a fast developing area of
research and professional practice. The application of DNA typing
in wildlife forensic science is one of these prime uses of DNA
typing and is gaining increasing profile. The use of DNA
profiling in wildlife forensic science falls into two broad areas:
species testing and genetic linkage. Species testing answers the
question ?what species is this?? and genetic linkage
answers the question ?did these two samples come from the
same organism or population?? Wildlife DNA Analysis:
Applications in Forensic Science provides an accessible
introduction to both of these key areas.

Clearly structured throughout, the introduction highlights the
different types of crime where these techniques are regularly used.
This chapter includes a discussion as to who performs forensic
wildlife examinations, the standardisation and validation of
methods, and the role of the expert witness in this type of alleged
crime. This is followed by a detailed section on the science behind
DNA typing including the problems in isolating DNA from trace
material and subsequent genetic analysis are also covered. The book
then undertakes a comprehensive review of species testing using
DNA, including a step-by-step guide to sequence comparisons. A
comparison of the different markers used in species testing
highlights the criteria for a genetic marker. A full set of case
histories illustrates the use of the different markers used. The
book details the use of genetic markers to link two or more
hairs/feather/leaves/needles to the same individual organism and
the software used in population assignment. The problems and
possibilities in isolating markers, along with the construction of
allele databases are discussed in this chapter. The book concludes
with evaluation and reporting of genetic evidence in wildlife
forensic science illustrated by examples of witness
statements.

?An accessible introduction to this fast developing area
of research within forensic science
?Case studies throughout to link theory and practice and
to highlight the use of DNA testing in species testing.
?Covers both crimes against wildlife and offences where
wildlife can provide vital evidence
?Assumes only a basic background knowledge of DNA
?Includes a comprehensive review of species testing
using DNA, including a step-by-step guide to sequence
comparisons