Avian Forensics Course

Together, we can bring hope to the skies.

Imagine standing in a serene forest, the sound of birds filling the air.

Now, imagine that same forest, silent - its birdlife devastated by poaching, poisoning, and the illegal wildlife trade.

Sadly, this is the grim reality for millions of birds across the globe, and the need for action has never been more urgent. In response to this growing crisis, the Wildlife Forensic Academy is launching the world’s first avian forensic course, a program designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge to combat crimes against birds. From the moment you join us, you’ll step into a journey of discovery and action.

Over two immersive weeks, you’ll explore the fascinating world of birds - learning to understand their unique morphology, how they fall victim to poisoning, and the ways human-wildlife conflict threatens their survival. As part of your training, you'll travel to a national park and a bird rehabilitation centre, where you’ll witness firsthand the challenges faced by conservationists and rehabilitators. You'll gain valuable experience as you investigate crime scenes involving birds, learn how to conduct post-mortem examinations, and understand the courtroom procedures needed to bring offenders to justice.

Guided by experts at the forefront of avian forensics, you’ll delve into the shadowy underworld of illegal bird poaching and trafficking. With each session, you'll build the tools and confidence necessary to confront these issues, ensuring the voices of our feathered friends are heard - even in the most tragic of circumstances.

Educational Objectives:

  • Avian Taxonomy and morphology

  • Avian Tracking and Trade;

  • Avian First Aid and Postmortem;

  • Understanding Cultural Uses of birds;

  • Crime Scene Management and Documentation.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Wildlife Crime Investigation and Legal Procedures: Learn crime scene management, documentation, and reporting for legal purposes, with practical experience in court preparation and testimony.

  • Wildlife Conservation, Ecology, and Threats: Gain insight into local mammal ecology, conservation efforts, seabird and vulture threats, and wildlife trafficking routes.

  • Avian Biology, Forensics, and Research Techniques: Understand avian taxonomy, morphology, forensics, and develop practical skills in bird first aid, entomology, and research techniques like mist netting and sound analysis.

  • Survival, Tracking, and Anti-Poaching Skills: Develop hands-on survival, tracking, and anti-poaching skills applicable in real-world scenarios.

  • Cultural Awareness and Community Engagement: Gain an understanding of San culture, human-animal cohabitation, and the cultural heritage of South Africa through site visits and conservation efforts.

  • Traditional Knowledge and Wildlife Solutions: Explore traditional wildlife uses and solutions to conservation challenges.

Included:

  • Course attendance; 

  • Accommodation for the duration of the course;

  • Catering (breakfast, lunch and dinner);

  • Transport during the course;

  • All park entrance fees, permits and tickets for excursions.


Excluded:

  • VISA;

  • Alcoholic beverages;

  • Inbound and outbound flights;

  • Our shuttle service will collect course participants from Cape Town between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM on the Sunday the course begins. The course will conclude on Saturday afternoon, with participants being dropped off at their accommodation or the airport. Upon request, we can provide recommendations for reputable drivers for airport transfers and suggested Cape Town accommodations.

Course cost:

€4000

Course Dates:

  • 16 February 2025