Britain's Prince William has joined his father Prince Charles in urging global action to tackle the illegal poaching of wild animals.

William told a conservation conference at London's St. James's Palace that he is calling on his charity, the Royal Foundation, to engage young people in the cause.

The conference brings together policy makers and the private sector to develop solutions to stop the illegal trade in animal parts, including rhino horns and elephant tusks.

Charles, who has been campaigning for the protection of wildlife for decades, told the gathering: "As a father and a soon-to-be grandfather, I find it inconceivable that our children and grandchildren live in a world bereft of these animals."

William and the former Kate Middleton are expecting their first child.