Unsustainable wildlife trade threatens numerous species. This study uses machine learning to analyze patent filings (1970-2020) related to six traded taxa (rhinoceroses, pangolins, bears, sturgeon, horseshoe crabs, and caterpillar fungus) to detect early warnings of market shifts. A 130% annual increase in patents was found, exceeding background rates. Innovation led to diversification, including new products (e.g., rhino horn fertilizer) and farming methods. Stricter regulation did not consistently reduce patenting, highlighting how businesses predict and adapt to market changes. Patents offer valuable data for proactive wildlife trade management.

A. Hinsley, D. W. S. Challender, S. Masters, D. W. Macdonald, E. J. Milner-Gulland, J. Fraser, J. Wright