Idaho Fish and Game is asking the public for information about a bull elk that was shot and left to waste in Unit 21, east of Grangeville, this fall. I read the agency’s news release, which says the elk was reported by a hunter who came across the carcass in a remote area near the Selway River in late October. Conservation officers believe the elk was killed sometime during the first week of October, during the general rifle season.
The bull elk was shot, but no meat was taken, a violation of Idaho’s law against wasting big game animals. According to the release, the elk’s head was also removed, which suggests the antlers were taken. Wildlife officers are looking for anyone who saw suspicious activity, parked vehicles, or heard shots in the area between the Selway Falls and the Race Creek junction during that time.
What this means for Idaho homeowners and hunters
If you hunt or live near Unit 21, you might come across illegally killed game without realizing it. Idaho Fish and Game reminds the public that wasting a big game animal is a misdemeanor that can result in fines, license suspension, and restitution. The agency encourages anyone with information, even a partial license plate or a vehicle description, to contact the Citizens Against Poaching hotline at (800) 632-5999. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to a conviction.
The primary source for this story is the Idaho Fish and Game news release.
The notice is published by Idaho Fish and Game news at idfg.idaho.gov.
