Forensic scientist, author, dog trainer, and wildlife analyst explore crimes in the animal kingdom, including vulture behavior in investigations, bears breaking the law, and training dogs to detect scents. They discuss cases like burglaries in Aspen and anti-poaching efforts in Zambia.
Utilizing vultures in forensic investigations to locate bodies in unconventional ways.
Training working dogs like Ruger to combat wildlife crimes by sniffing out contraband.
Disrupting pangolin trafficking networks through targeted intelligence operations and seizing illegal wildlife products.
Deep dives
Detective Uses Unorthodox Method to Find Kidnapping Victim
A detective in Louisiana dealt with a kidnapping case where the victim had gone missing. Unable to find any clues, the detective reached out to a forensic scientist specializing in vultures. The scientist explained that vultures could help locate a body by leaving feathers or not very specific marks. This unconventional approach led to discovering a shallow grave with the victim's remains.
Working Dogs Aid in Combating Wildlife Crimes
Working dogs are trained to assist in detecting wildlife crimes, such as poaching and trafficking. Meghan Parker, a dog trainer, shared the story of Ruger, the first anti-poaching dog in Zambia. Despite initial challenges and aggressive behavior, Ruger was trained to identify illegal wildlife contraband, leading to successful apprehensions and deterring wildlife trafficking.
Pangolin Trafficking and Intelligence Operations
Pangolins, the most trafficked mammal globally, face severe threats due to the high demand for their scales in traditional medicine. Sarah Stoner, an intelligence analyst, highlighted the investigation of pangolin trafficking networks. By following the money and targeting key individuals, such as level five orchestrators, law enforcement aims to disrupt these criminal operations and protect endangered species.
Hope Amidst Wildlife Crime Challenges
Despite the significant challenges in combating wildlife crimes, there are instances of success that offer hope. Operations like seizing large quantities of pangolin scales in Nigeria signify progress in disrupting networks involved in illegal wildlife trade. Intelligence efforts focusing on key players and continuous dedication to the cause aim to address the complex issue of wildlife crime.
Conclusion on Crimes in the Wild
The podcast episode delves into the complex world of crimes involving animals, from unorthodox investigative methods like using vultures to detect bodies to the crucial role of working dogs in combatting wildlife crimes. With a focus on pangolin trafficking and intelligence operations, the episode sheds light on the challenges and victories in efforts to protect endangered species and address illegal wildlife trade.
True crime mysteries can be dark and thrilling. But what if humans can't crack the case? What if the suspect ... isn't human? This hour, TED Radio Hour investigates crimes with a wild twist. Guests include forensic scientist Lauren Pharr Parks, author Mary Roach, dog trainer and conservationist Megan Parker, wildlife intelligence analyst Sarah Stoner. Original broadcast date: October 21, 2022.
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