Over 300 Animals Killed Illegally Within Two Months in Utah

Wildlife conservation officers in Utah report an increase in illegal animal killings ahead of the state's busiest hunting season, with the number exceeding 300 animals killed in the past two months.

According to the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, 319 animals, such as 39 big game species like deer and elk, were illegally killed in the state between August 1 and Friday. The 280 additional animals were classified as fish, waterfowl, and fur-bearing species.

According to division officials, while looking into possible poaching cases, conservation officers have sanctioned 569 citations after 4,347 license inspections.

License Mishaps

The most frequent hunting and fishing infractions, according to Lt. Chad Bettridge of the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, include having a license that is invalid or expired, having a permit for the incorrect species, hunting in the incorrect unit or season, trespassing on private property to hunt without a permit, and improper harvest tagging.

The recent increase in poaching coincides with the start of the hunting season in Utah. August 20 marked the start of the general deer and elk archery season. Since then, a few other hunts have also begun, but the primary general waterfowl hunt doesn't begin until Saturday. October 8-20 are dedicated to the general-season spike as well as any-bull elk hunts, while October 22-30 are devoted to the general-season deer hunt.

In a statement released on Monday, Bettridge said that before heading out into the field, hunters must assume responsibility for knowing the law, having a valid hunting or combination license, and being aware of the species and geographic areas for which their permits are valid.

Read also: After Over a Century, Critically Endangered California Condors Finally Returns to Redwood 

Poaching

According to the division, poaching is a recurring issue in the state. Previously, Bettridge stated that 1,153 animals, including 52 trophy deer or elk as well as 241 non trophy deer or elk, were illegally killed in 2021. Another 34 animals were illegally killed in the state last year, including cougars, moose, bears, and bighorn sheep.

Whether such a case is a felony or only considered a misdemeanor depends on the size and species of the animal that was killed. Due to the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact, penalties may include fines, restitution costs, and the loss of hunting rights in Utah and most other states. According to the division, 55 people had suspicious license validity last year, and another 54 have already had their licenses revoked this year.

State conservation officers, meanwhile, gave other hunters and anglers credit for their assistance in the most recent poaching cases. Between August 1 and September 23, according to division officials, they received about 240 tips from different sources to report poaching cases.

Bettridge said that by reporting crimes they've witnessed, vehicle descriptions, or a license plate number, people can assist. It's also suggested that anyone who observes a crime involving wildlife avoid confronting the suspect.

To maintain healthy populations of wildlife, help with conservation efforts, and keep the general public safe while participating in outdoor activities, Bettridge is pleading with the public for cooperation in enforcing wildlife laws, KSL reports.

Related article: How to Behave Around Wildlife: Important Tips for Travelers