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Study ‘unlocks potential’ of DNA for wildlife crime
Poisoning, trapping and shooting are all methods used to illegally target birds of prey.
Researchers trace DNA from items left for at least 10 days outside 

DNA techniques used to solve crime such as burglary and murder could one day be used to identify people involved in wildlife offences, according to new research.

The study, published in the journal Forensic Science International: Genetics, found that human DNA can be traced from wildlife traps that have been outside for at least 10 days. It also found that human DNA can be traced from rabbit baits and bird carcasses at crime scenes after at least 24 hours.

The research was led by the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime (PAW) Scotland in collaboration with the Scottish Police Authority's (SPA) Forensic Services, the Scottish Government and the University of Strathclyde.

“Poisoning, trapping and shooting are all methods used to illegally target birds of prey. However, investigations can often be hampered by a lack of evidence,” said environment secretary Roseanna Cunningham. “This new research will unlock the potential of using DNA profiles to track criminals and could play a crucial role in helping secure convictions for wildlife crime.”

Steven Ferguson, lead forensic scientist at SPA Forensic Services, added: “This exciting research in support of tackling wildlife crime demonstrates that DNA profiles can be obtained from items exposed to the elements in Scotland's sometimes harsh climate.

“In recent years, over £6 million has been invested in new forensic capability in Scotland including DNA24, robotics and powerful software to successfully obtain DNA profiles in support of the Scottish justice system.

“The research undertaken by PAW has demonstrated that these same techniques, used in crimes ranging from housebreaking to murder, can also be used to identify those involved in persecuting birds of prey.”

Detective chief superintendent David McLaren said: "The illegal use of traps are often used in remote places. This makes the collection of evidence extremely challenging. Police Scotland always welcomes advancement in scientific techniques to solve wildlife crime and has always used all the available tools in our pursuit of those who commit wildlife crime.

"This new technique will advance our ability to collect human DNA from illegally set traps."

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

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Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.