# @usfws on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/Ddr8dTSgfyc
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/70942329-usfws-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/a14f4b7800.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-09-24T22:20:45.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (@usfws) — https://gondola.cc/usfws

## Caption

We’re celebrating National Forensic Science Week! 

Behind every wildlife crime investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there’s a piece of evidence with a story to tell.

We’re incredibly fortunate to have the world’s only comprehensive full-service wildlife forensics laboratory at the Clark R. Bavin National Fish and Wildlife Forensics Laboratory in Ashland, Oregon. Our lab plays a critical role in supporting federal, state and international wildlife law enforcement agencies. 

Highly-trained morphologists, pathologists, geneticists, chemists and ancillary staff use cutting-edge technology to conduct analyses which guide wildlife criminal investigations, bolster prosecutions and increase compliance with wildlife protection laws. Our wildlife inspectors and special agents work closely with the laboratory by submitting detained and seized property for forensic analysis, ensuring that investigative findings are scientifically supported and legally defensible. 

Since its opening in 1989, the lab has worked on more than 16,000 cases with approximately 250,000 pieces of evidence, including those involving protected species such as elephants, rhinoceros, condors, sharks and turtles. While their work occurs behind the scenes, we recognize and appreciate their expertise and commitment, which continues to be an invaluable asset in the effort to combat wildlife trafficking. 

Photo of a geneticist examining big cat skulls and other associated bones by USFWS. #nationalforensicscienceweek #usfws 

The Deputy Lab Director and herpetologist examine the morphological characteristics of sea turtle carapaces (shells) by comparing them with established Lab reference standards. Photo by USFWS. 

A geneticist examines shark fins and totoaba fish maw (swim bladders) that were associated with a wildlife trafficking investigation. Photo by USFWS. 

An ornithologist examines the morphological differences in hornbill species while working on a wildlife trafficking case. Photo by USFWS. 

Lab staff and wildlife inspectors group photo by USFWS

## Stats

- **Views:** 0
- **Likes:** 1,379
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 1

## Tags

nationalforensicscienceweek, usfws

---
Copyright (c) Gondola