2 Grizzly Bear Cubs killed near Union Pass Road
Game & Fish offering up to $10,000 reward for information on poaching
by Wyoming Game & Fish
October 27, 2008
The Wyoming Game & Fish Department is offering up to a $10,000 reward for any information that would lead to the conviction of the individual responsible for killing two yearling grizzly bear cubs found dead near Dubois on Sunday, October 19, 2008. The bears were found on Warm Springs Mountain near the Union Pass Road.
The two yearling grizzly bears, one male and one female, are suspected to have been shot late on October 18th or early October 19th. Two concerned hunters reported the bears immediately upon discovery.
"Without information to the contrary we have to assume these bears were taken illegally rather than in self-defense," said Regional Wildlife Supervisor Kent Schmidlin.
"In the past, self-defense human-bear conflicts resulting in the death of a grizzly bear have been reported and investigated quickly, generally resulting in no penalties for the individual that took the bear. Since no one has yet come forward informing us that the bears were legally taken in self-defense, we are working on the assumption that it was foul play."
To complicate the matter, a sow that was known to be with the cubs prior to their death is still in the area. Bear tracks at the scene following the death of the cubs indicated the sow had returned and appeared to be uninjured. Hunters and others recreating bear country are urged to exercise extreme caution when in the field and take the necessary precautions. Game & Fish also urges hunters to know how to use bear pepper spray and carry it easily accessible at all times.
"The known presence of the sow in the area is a concern, and it made the investigation much more difficult," said Schmidlin. "If anyone was in the area around the time of the incident, any information they can provide us regarding the death of these bears would be greatly appreciated."
Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Lander Game and Fish Office directly at (307) 332-2688. Information can also be reported by calling the Stop Poaching Hotline at 1-877-WGFD-TIP. Stop Poaching tips may also be reported online at http://gf.state.wy.us.
Those with information may remain anonymous and may be eligible for up to a $10,000 reward if the tip leads to a conviction. This reward, as well as other monetary rewards, is made possible by the Wyoming Wildlife Protectors Association. Rewards may also be collected anonymously.
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