Fake or real claws: Beyond molecular forensic investigations

Abstract

The illegal wildlife trade poses a serious threat to global biodiversity and ongoing conservation efforts. Across the globe, this trade is increasing daily, overwhelming enforcement agencies with a flood of counterfeit wildlife products. One key challenge for these authorities is differentiating legitimate wildlife derivatives from expertly forged ones. This case report describes a forensic investigation involving a claw suspected to be from a tiger or leopard. The item was seized by enforcement officials and submitted for species identification. A multidisciplinary forensic approach—including molecular analysis, and radiographic imaging—was used. DNA was successfully extracted from keratin and analysed using the universal cytochrome b gene. Radiographic examination revealed a uniform keratin density, unlike the heterogeneous density typical of tiger and leopard claws. The claw was conclusively identified as originating from a domestic goat (Capra hircus) based on molecular investigation. This case highlights the sophistication of illegal wildlife trade operations and underscores the critical role of integrated forensic science in wildlife crime investigations.