Summary
Lion DNA was used for the first time in Zimbabwe to convict poachers. Authorities matched DNA from lion body parts found with suspects to a lion's DNA in a national database. Two men were sentenced to prison based on this new evidence.
Key Facts
- Lion DNA helped convict poachers in Zimbabwe for the first time.
- A lion in Hwange National Park was tracked with a radio collar before its DNA was collected.
- Investigators found evidence like lion fur and body parts in a village.
- A DNA database of lions in Zimbabwe matched the evidence to the missing lion.
- Poachers were sentenced to 24 months in prison for their crime.
- The DNA database was developed with support from the UK-based People's Postcode Lottery.
- Traditional uses of lion parts made past convictions difficult.
- The successful prosecution shows new forensic methods can help combat wildlife crime.
