What Influences the Poaching of Wildlife? A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis

The illegal hunting, taking, and killing of wild fauna and flora have received increased attention from criminologists in recent years. Much of this literature has centered on understanding the factors that motivate and incentivize individuals to engage in such acts. This study examined the existing literature that has qualitatively explored terrestrial poaching drivers and motivations to identify commonalities and differences. Additionally, operating from a qualitative meta-synthesis approach, we developed overarching themes to identify a comprehensive poaching typology for both wild fauna and flora. Our analysis of the 25 studies included in our QMS identified eight distinct themes contributing to poaching. Through analytical synthesis, these eight themes were subsequently categorized into two broad groups: motivating factors and facilitating conditions. Our study highlights the value of conducting QMS to synthesize and guide future research on poaching, while also providing an avenue to identify potential mechanisms useful in responding to poaching activities.