2 Cases Of Elk Poaching Investigated Before Hunting Season Begins
SILVERTHORNE, Colo. (CBS4)- Two cases of bull elk poaching have wildlife officers concerned. They hope the public can help them track down the poachers.
One of the dead elk was found near Dinosaur and the other was on Ute Pass near Silverthorne.
Elk hunting season in Colorado begins on Saturday.
"The wildlife of Colorado belong to the people of Colorado and the people who visit here," said Colorado Parks and Wildlife Manager Lyle Sidener. "It's like a burglar coming in your house and stealing your TV."
CPW learned about the carcass near Silverthorne on Oct. 6 and hopes the public can help them identify the person responsible.
According to CPW, the elk had been field dressed, quartered and placed in game bags. One rear quarter, a backstrap and the head and antlers were missing. The rest was left to rot by the side of the road.
If the person does not come forward, CPW said the person could face steep fines, felony charges and the revocation of hunting and fishing privileges.
Additional Information from CPW:
To provide information about a wildlife violation anonymously, the public can contact OGT at 877-265-6648, by dialing #OGT from a Verizon phone, or by email at game.thief@state.co.us. Rewards are available if the information leads to an arrest or citation.
For more information about how you can report a wildlife crime, visit the CPW website.
