A forensic science graduate is using hair from a 120-year-old taxidermy bear at the Museum of Chelmsford to help develop new methods for solving wildlife crime. Hayden Leigh, a PhD researcher at the University of Staffordshire, is analysing samples from Boris the bear's fur.
The research involves comparing the characteristics of Boris's fur to improve the identification of animal hairs during investigations. Leigh is using a microscope to examine the cuticles and different layers of the bear's fur, as well as its DNA.
The aim of this work is to create a more cost-effective and reliable alternative to DNA analysis. This could help to tackle the illegal poaching and trafficking of wildlife, particularly brown bears found in regions like Romania, Bulgaria, and Russia.
Leigh noted that taxidermy samples from museums, such as Boris, offer a valuable and accessible resource for studying animal hair in a forensic context. This approach allows for ethical examination of authentic animal hair without disturbing live animals.