Crime scene of the wild, unveiling the national Wildlife forensics lab

The video introduces a unique wildlife crime lab in Ashland, OR, led by Ken Goddard. The lab functions like a police crime lab but focuses on non-human animals, supporting wildlife laws like the Endangered Species Act. The lab tackles the massive illicit wildlife trade, valued at billions annually. Key personnel include Dr. Becky Kagan, a veterinary pathologist, Johnny French, who manages a vast specimen collection, Dr. Mary Curtis, leading genetics, and Dr. Pepper Trail, an ornithologist. Each plays a crucial role in analyzing evidence to combat wildlife crime. The lab's work is vital in bringing wildlife criminals to justice, despite the challenges and emotional toll.

What is the primary focus of the wildlife crime lab?

• To study animal behavior in the wild

• To identify and link evidence in wildlife crimes

• To conserve endangered plant species

• To train police officers in forensic science

What is the main task of the veterinary pathologist in the lab?

• To train animals for law enforcement

• To conduct autopsies on animals to determine cause of death

• To oversee the lab's security operations

• To manage the lab's finances

How does the lab prepare bones for their reference collection?

• By freezing them for preservation

• By placing them in a flesh-eating beetle tank

• By using chemical solvents

• By boiling them in water

What is the role of the genetics team in the wildlife crime lab?

• To conduct field research on wildlife

• To identify species from crafted items

• To train new scientists

• To manage the lab's public relations

What kind of evidence does the ornithologist primarily work with?

• Insect collections

• Plant fossils

• Marine life samples

• Bird evidence and specimens