Join us for a five-day, hands-on training course designed for individuals interested in understanding and combating wildlife crime. Hosted at the Wildlife Forensic Academy at Buffelsfontein Game & Nature Reserve, this immersive program introduces participants to the legal, investigative, and forensic aspects of wildlife crime in South Africa.

Through a combination of lectures, practical demonstrations, and scenario-based learning, participants will gain insight into the real-world processes used to investigate and prosecute wildlife crime.

Who should attend:

The course is suitable for a wide range of participants, including students pursuing degrees in criminology, law, conservation, or environmental studies, as well as professionals working in animal welfare, law enforcement, private security, conservation management, and field rangers. Legal professionals interested in wildlife crime are also welcome to attend.

Course highlights:

• Introduction to wildlife crime trends and investigative approaches

• Overview of South African legal frameworks relating to wildlife and environmental crime

• Wildlife forensic science and the role of forensic evidence in investigations

• Crime scene management and evidence collection techniques

• Practical demonstrations of field-based forensic methods

• A simulated wildlife crime scene investigation, where participants collect and document evidence

• A mock court / moot court exercise where participants present findings and experience how evidence is used in legal proceedings

• An animal viewing drive as part of the learning experience within a working conservation landscape

• A South African barbeque (braai) – a local culinary experience