Using an alternate light source to detect electrically singed feathers and hair in a forensic setting

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Wildlife Forensics
• Animal Electrophysiology

Background:

• Electrical injuries, including lightning strikes and power line contact, cause wildlife mortality.
• Diagnosis can be difficult, especially when physical evidence of electrocution is subtle.
• Subtle signs may result from low current or reduced conductivity, complicating definitive diagnosis.

Observation:

• This study introduces the use of an alternate light source (ALS) for examining wildlife exposed to electrical currents.
• ALS enhances the detection of subtle changes in hair and feathers not easily visible under standard lighting.
• The technique was tested on wildlife affected by lightning strikes.

Findings:

• ALS effectively revealed subtle electrical injury alterations in the wing feathers of snow geese and the fur of a wolf after lightning events.
• The method significantly improved the visibility of damage caused by electrical currents.
• This technique shows promise for strengthening evidence in cases of power line exposure in birds.

Implications:

• The use of ALS offers a valuable, non-destructive diagnostic tool for wildlife electrocution cases.
• Improved detection of subtle signs can lead to more accurate post-mortem assessments in wildlife mortality investigations.
• This method can enhance forensic investigations involving electrical injuries in wild animals, aiding conservation efforts.