How to Be Wildlife Crime Investigator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Wildlife crime investigator is a crucial role in protecting the world's wildlife. As illegal poaching and trafficking of animals continues to increase, the need for investigators to uncover and prosecute these crimes is becoming more and more important. By gathering evidence, analyzing data, and conducting investigations, wildlife crime investigators are able to hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.

This has a significant impact on the prevention of wildlife crime, as the fear of punishment can act as a deterrent for poachers and traffickers. In addition, such investigations can also help to raise awareness of the need for conservation, which can lead to greater public support for initiatives that help protect vulnerable species.

Steps How to Become

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree. To become a wildlife crime investigator, you must first earn a bachelor's degree in a natural resource-related field such as wildlife biology, conservation science, or ecology.
2. Gain Relevant Experience. Wildlife crime investigators must have knowledge and experience in the field of conservation. Relevant experience can include working in a research laboratory, volunteering with an environmental organization, or working as an intern at a wildlife refuge or national park.
3. Get Certified. Although not required, it is beneficial for wildlife crime investigators to obtain certification from a professional organization such as the Wildlife Law Enforcement Certification Program (WLECP). This certification is available to law enforcement officers and other professionals who have experience in wildlife law enforcement.
4. Pursue a Master's Degree. A master's degree in a natural resource-related field can help you develop the specialized knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful wildlife crime investigator.
5. Join a Professional Organization. Joining a professional organization such as the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (IAFWA) or the International Association for the Study of Animal Crime (IASAC) can help you stay up to date on the latest developments in wildlife law enforcement and gain access to valuable resources and training opportunities.
6. Obtain Law Enforcement Training. Becoming a wildlife crime investigator often requires specialized law enforcement training. Depending on the jurisdiction, this may include courses in search and seizure, evidence collection, interview techniques, and criminal investigation.

Wildlife crime investigators have an important role to play in preserving our natural world. They are responsible for detecting, investigating and prosecuting those that commit illegal activities that endanger wildlife. To be an ideal and qualified investigator, one must possess a wide range of skills and qualities, such as knowledge of wildlife conservation laws, expertise in investigative techniques, strong communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work independently and collaboratively, and a commitment to protecting the environment.

having a background in law enforcement is also essential. With these skills and qualities, a wildlife crime investigator can help ensure that criminals are held accountable for their actions, thus helping to conserve and protect endangered species and habitats.

You may want to check Wildlife Control Specialist, Wildlife Advocate, and Wildlife Presenter for alternative.

Job Description

1. Identify, investigate and document wildlife crime violations.
2. Gather evidence and record information required to support criminal investigations.
3. Testify in court as an expert witness in wildlife crime cases.
4. Collect and analyze scientific data to support wildlife crime investigations.
5. Interview witnesses, suspects and experts in wildlife crimes.
6. Prepare detailed reports on wildlife crime investigations and submit to the appropriate authorities.
7. Consult with prosecutors on matters related to wildlife crimes.
8. Work with other agencies and organizations to coordinate investigative efforts and develop strategies to combat wildlife crime.
9. Develop and implement strategies to reduce the prevalence of wildlife crime.
10. Monitor and enforce compliance with laws and regulations pertaining to wildlife crime.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Knowledge of wildlife and natural habitats
2. Understanding of wildlife laws and regulations
3. Investigative techniques
4. Ability to collect and analyze evidence
5. Interviewing skills
6. Familiarity with criminal justice procedures
7. Computer literacy
8. Knowledge of forensic science and techniques
9. Writing skills
10. Communication skills
11. Strong organizational skills
12. Critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities
13. Physical fitness
14. Self-discipline and motivation

Wildlife crime investigators need to possess a variety of important skills to be successful in their role. One of the most important skills is the ability to collect and analyze evidence. This involves gathering all available evidence related to a case and then determining what is relevant and what can be used to support or refute a hypothesis.

wildlife crime investigators must have an understanding of the legal system, as they must be familiar with the laws related to wildlife crimes, their rights as investigators, and their responsibilities to the case. Lastly, they must have strong communication skills, as they must often work with multiple agencies, local communities, and other stakeholders to coordinate investigations. By having these skills, wildlife crime investigators are able to gather the evidence they need to successfully investigate and prosecute wildlife crimes, thus protecting endangered species and helping to ensure a sustainable future for our planet.

Wildlife Conservation Scientist, Wildlife Research Technician, and Wildlife Sanctuary Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have in investigating wildlife crimes?
• Describe a situation in which you successfully solved a wildlife crime.
• How do you stay up to date on laws and regulations related to wildlife crimes?
• What approaches do you use when conducting an investigation?
• What techniques do you use to communicate with witnesses, suspects, and other stakeholders?
• How do you collaborate with other law enforcement officers or agencies during an investigation?
• How do you manage stress and work long hours when investigating a case?
• What strategies do you use to protect evidence and ensure it is admissible in court?
• Describe a time when you had to handle conflicting priorities during a wildlife crime investigation.
• What safety protocols do you follow when investigating a wildlife crime?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Forensic Analysis Software. This software is used to analyze evidence collected from the scene of the crime, such as fingerprints, DNA, and other biological evidence. (eg: Cellebrite UFED)
2. Video Analytics Software. This software is used to review video surveillance footage to detect suspicious activities and identify potential suspects. (eg: Avigilon Control Center)
3. GIS Mapping Software. This software is used to create digital maps that provide geographic context to crime scenes. (eg: ArcGIS)
4. Drone Technology. This technology is used to capture aerial footage of potential crime scenes or areas of interest. (eg: DJI Phantom 4 Pro)
5. Wildlife Tracking Software. This software is used to track the location of wild animals in order to detect illegal hunting or poaching activities. (eg: Wildlife Crime Investigator)

Professional Organizations to Know

1. International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
2. World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
3. CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora)
4. International Association for Fish and Wildlife Agencies (IAFWA)
5. US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
6. Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB)
7. National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU)
8. Interpol
9. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
10. Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA)

We also have Wildlife Restoration Specialist, Wildlife Surveyor, and Wildlife Educator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

1. Poaching. Illegal hunting or fishing of wild animals.
2. Wildlife Trafficking. The illegal trade of wildlife and their parts and products.
3. CITES. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, an international agreement between governments to protect endangered plants and animals.
4. Endangered Species. A species of animal, plant or other organism that is at risk of becoming extinct due to human activity.
5. Lacey Act. US federal law that prohibits trade in wildlife, fish, and plants that have been illegally taken, possessed, transported, or sold.
6. Habitat Conservation. Protecting natural habitats and the species within them by preventing or reducing habitat destruction or degradation.
7. Smuggling. The illegal transportation of people or goods across international borders.
8. Animal Cruelty. Intentional infliction of pain and suffering on animals.
9. Forensics. The application of science and technology to investigate crimes.
10. DNA Analysis. A laboratory technique used to identify an individual based on their unique genetic makeup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a Wildlife Crime Investigator?

A Wildlife Crime Investigator is responsible for investigating violations of wildlife laws and regulations, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing reports for law enforcement or legal proceedings.

What qualifications are needed to become a Wildlife Crime Investigator?

To become a Wildlife Crime Investigator, an individual must typically have at least a four-year degree in a related field such as criminal justice, law enforcement, or wildlife management. Specialized training in wildlife crime investigation may also be required.

How long does it take to investigate a wildlife crime?

The amount of time it takes to investigate a wildlife crime can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the case, the availability of evidence, and other factors. In general, a wildlife crime investigation can take anywhere from a few days to several months.

What types of wildlife crimes are investigated by Wildlife Crime Investigators?

Wildlife Crime Investigators investigate a variety of wildlife crimes, including poaching, illegal hunting and fishing, illegal wildlife trade, habitat destruction, and animal abuse.

What organizations employ Wildlife Crime Investigators?

Wildlife Crime Investigators may be employed by state and federal agencies such as the US Fish & Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, and state fish and game departments. They may also work for non-governmental organizations such as conservation groups or private investigative firms.

What are jobs related with Wildlife Crime Investigator?

• Wildlife Rescue Worker

Web Resources

• Wildlife Crime Scene Processing - University of Florida wildlife.forensics.med.ufl.edu
• The Importance of Forensic Science in Wildlife Investigations online.forensics.med.ufl.edu
• Cybercrime in Wildlife Investigations - University of Florida vetforensics.med.ufl.edu