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Forensic science is playing an increasingly significant role in combating the illegal wildlife trade, as highlighted in a recent photographic series. One striking image by award-winning photographer Britta Jaschinski initially appears to show a green turtle elegantly gliding through shimmering water. Upon closer inspection, however, a human handprint is revealed, glowing under ultraviolet light thanks to forensic powder. This subtle detail unveils the human footprint in wildlife crime, underlining the power of scientific methods in exposing poachers.
The innovative technique was developed by specialists working with the UK’s Wildlife Crime and Forensics Unit. It is capable of detecting fingerprints, blood, bodily fluids, and even gunpowder residue at crime scenes, thereby assisting law enforcement in identifying offenders and dismantling wildlife trafficking operations. The approach is already making a tangible difference in various investigations.
One notable application has been in disrupting the illegal ivory trade. Mark Moseley, a forensic expert from London’s Metropolitan Police, utilizes a newly formulated magnetic powder to reveal fingerprints on elephant tusks seized at Heathrow Airport. This groundbreaking method has been scaled up, with over 200 fingerprinting kits based on this technology distributed to border agencies in 40 countries across Africa and Asia. In Kenya alone, use of these kits has led to 15 arrests—including five police officers—and the confiscation of 11 elephant tusks. This technique has transformed ivory from mere evidence of possession to a tool for identifying specific perpetrators.
Further extending its reach, a white version of the powder now helps recover prints from rhino horns and pangolin scales. These powders are not only cost-effective but also practical for field use, particularly in locations lacking access to DNA testing facilities. Jaschinski’s evocative photograph, which captures the essence of this forensic breakthrough, won recognition at the Royal Geographical Society’s Earth Photo 2026 competition and is currently exhibited in London until 24 July, after which it will tour across the UK
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