Thanks for your comments and ideas! I agree that more needs to be done to expose this trade, as the public doesn't realize how big of a problem it really is. When Elle MacPherson recently boasted about her use of rhino horn and its benefits (see: http://bit.ly/cN4kBl), she underscored the issues of lack of knowledge and lack of caring about where the product came from.  Other celebrities, like Christy Brinkley, contribute to the problem unknowingly -- like when she purchased an ultra-expensive shahtoosh shawl made from rare Tibetan Antelope. On the other hand, other celebrities, like Harrison Ford and Yao Ming, have worked tirelessly to stop the trade and have been spokespeople in PSAs (check out YouTube). The bottom line is that when people like you are vocal, things can change.

-- Laurel

When I was in my teens, there were vocal protests in front of furriers and department stores that sold furs. Protesters yelled, "Fur is Dead"! It was very effective to change fur from being chic to reprehensible. Why doesnt a campaign target Asian medicine, ivory and other animal parts with a highly visable videos like the The Cove movie, or Greenpeace's efforts against whaling? Since education, sentencing and shortage of wildlife officers to police the smugglers hasn't been that effective? In this internet age, with You Tube and so many wildlife conservation organizations, it seems that it is high time to confront the problem directly and not be afraid of offending other cultures. Or, do we wait and hope it will get better until the last of the species is sold? I appreciate the the efforts of the wildlife forensics lab, but until the perception of collecting animal parts is percieved as morally reprehensible, instead of a status symbol, it will continue. Naming celeberties on facebook is a good start, hopefully it will get some press. lee

Thanks so much for your comments.  Glad you liked the book.  I'm happy to say that the book will be coming out in paperback in the fall of 2010 -- with some updates and a redesigned cover.

As to your question regarding Milan Hrabovsky, I can report that, as of June 2010, he still remains at large.

-- Laurel

I would first like to mention one negative about the book.  That is, too many notations to turn to the back of the book to learn about the penalties handed down or other items of interest that I believee could have been included in the regular text.

I wish to thank you very much for all the work and knowledge shared for the public to be aware of.  A book we certainly wish need not be written, but one that was superbly done. 

Sincerely,

Steve Tyler

p.s.  Do you know if Milan Hrabovsky has been apprehended again or still on the run.

My daughter (10) is a avid fan of aspca and obviously a animal lover.  She has ask me to find out what qualifications and schooling is needed to become a animal csi investigator and a animal police enforcer.  I searched and found this sight.  I may order your book.  Are there any other resources available that she may be able to research her interest? I have suggested that she volunteer at a local animal shelter.  Do you know of any Youth Summer Camps that would help her to reach her goals?

Thank You! 

Can I use some of your article as my topic in my research paper? Thank you!

Good job!!! I like this page :)

I have read that the WMI was hired by the TWRA to do an audit of its operations. I am trying to find a model for Tennessee to use for volunteer permitted rehabbers, and for those with educational permits who want to do education in schools and camps, etc.  Our rules are so restrictive at this point that no child can ever see a baby animal. Only non releasable cripples or blind animals can be used for education. If you can direct me to any sources that might have 'best practices" for rehabbers who also want to do educational programs, that would be a big help. I am thinking that Ed Carter would pay attention to your suggestions since he hired you to do an assessment of the TWRA. Any thoughts would be appreciated. We have to find ways to connect kids with nature or we aren't going to have any nature left!! MM

hi laurel!  the email contact link on your site isn't working so thought i'd try you this way. i'm one of the co-founders of wildlife friendly - we'd love to be featured on your radio show - how exciting!

if you didn't already visit our site: www.wildlifefriendly.org and so you can see what i've been up to in the last decade my personal work site is:

www.scentmark.org

so excited to see what you're working on and hope we can work together!

best and happy new year!   Julie

Laurel,

I loved your book. Thank you.  I am an Oregon ZooGuide and would like to feature your book in an upcoming issue of our volunteer news paper so others here can become aware of the work the lab does.

Terry

Laurel,

Thanks for the comment on my Associated Content article!  We definitely have a common interest.  I got my Masters in Forensic Biology/Chemistry because my interest lie in working in the wildlife forensics field some day.  In fact, my masters thesis research was based on using genetics to identify animal tissue for forensic purposes.  Since graduation, I've been working in biological labs doing other things!  Great website, and I am definitely interested in reading your book.  Impressive endorsements, especially Jeff Corwin, I love him!  I will definitely keep writing articles on this subject and hopefully we can keep in contact.  I tried emailing you directly but the link is not working.  Cheers!

Sarah Quinlan

Guest book created by you here is a very good step,because your readers can share their thoughts.Thanks.

Very nice site, like your top design.

Jena

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Hey Laurel,

I am a senior in high school and had no idea how to answer people when they asked what I wanted to do after High School. I love animals and I also love forensics. My dad was a forensic scientist and has told me so many stories about his experiences. I was torn with what I wanted to do. Then I heard from a friend of mine about Wildlife Forensics Lab in Ashland Oregon. I live in North Bend, Coos Bay, Oregon and thought that that was exactly what I was looking for. I just wanted to thank you for putting up this website and helping me learn a little more about being an animal investigator. I have asked for the book for christmas and it is on the way as I speak. I want to thank you again for giving me an answer to tell those who ask the same question to all of us high school seniors.

Thank You!

Andrea

It is really a very interesting site! Thank you!

research papers

Congratulations on your book. It was a very good read. I recently wrote a long paper on ivory structure. Let me know if a reprint might help in any future work you have planned. ML

Greetings!

I just placed an order for your book. I have shown the Nightline segment to 150 high school students who take classes at Petaluma Wildlife Museum.  Do you ever get to Sonoma County? We have great food, wine, and quite a poaching display.  My docents often have problems with educating the public on poaching.

 If you are ever in town, I would love to have you visit!

Thanks, Marsi Wier

Dear Laurel,

Your book is fascinating. I just can´t stop to read it! As a Brazilian Environmental Forensic Expert, I found myself in each page.

I´m waiting for the next book. 

Best regards,

Guilherme