Dogs possess an extraordinary sense of smell, which has proven to be an invaluable tool in wildlife conservation efforts. They have been trained to detect and locate various species, track illegal wildlife trade, and even identify specific scents related to endangered or elusive animals.

One remarkable example of dogs' olfactory prowess is their role in detecting and protecting endangered species such as rhinos and elephants. Conservation organizations have trained dogs to sniff out poached wildlife products like ivory, rhino horns, and pangolin scales. These trained canines can identify even the smallest traces of these illegal items, leading to the apprehension of poachers and the prevention of further harm to these vulnerable animals.

In addition to combating illegal wildlife trade, dogs have also been instrumental in tracking and monitoring endangered species. For instance, conservationists have trained dogs to locate the scat (feces) or other scent marks left by elusive animals like tigers or snow leopards. By analyzing these samples, researchers can gather valuable information about the population size, health, and genetic diversity of these species, aiding in their conservation and management.

Furthermore, dogs have been employed to assist in surveying and monitoring invasive species. In New Zealand, conservationists have utilized dogs to detect the presence of invasive pests like rats and stoats. These dogs can cover large areas quickly and accurately identify the scents of these pests, allowing for targeted eradication efforts and the protection of native wildlife.

References:

• Smith, J. L. (2017). The role of detection dogs in wildlife conservation. Conservation Biology, 31(6), 1379-1387.
• Wasser, S. K., et al. (2019). Using detection dogs to conduct simultaneous surveys of northern spotted (Strix occidentalis caurina) and barred (Strix varia) owls. PLoS ONE, 14(6), e0217360.
• Carroll, C., et al. (2018). Use of detection dogs for invasive species management: From individual dogs to managed networks. Biological Invasions, 20(11), 2645-2660.