“A new DNA database is being set up to hold genetic information on all the rhinoceros horn in the UK in an attempt to stop its theft and trade.

It’s probably not every day that a museum will get a couple of drill bits in the post accompanied by a polite request to bore a hole in one of their highly valuable exhibits.

But those holding rhino horn can expect just such a package in the next few months as the National Wildlife Crime Unit roles out its database.

“The illegal trade in endangered species is one of our six wildlife crime priorities and, within that, the number one issue for us is the illegal trade in rhino horn,” says unit head Det Insp Nevin Hunter…”

Source: BBC News
By: Tom Heap
To read the full article: www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-22075274