Large Buck Mule Deer Poached Near Lake Lowell

Fish and Game Officers in the Southwest Region are seeking information regarding the poaching of a mature buck mule deer near the Deer Flat National Refuge in Caldwell, Idaho. All of the meat was left to waste after the poachers took only the head and antlers. Investigating officers from Idaho Fish and Game and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service say the deer was shot on March 9 or 10 across from a busy Caldwell park adjacent to the refuge. This area is closed to hunting, and there are no current seasons for mule deer open in any part of Idaho. Investigators with both agencies conducted a lengthy and thorough necropsy, collecting evidence and taking photographs. Residents in the area reported seeing several large bucks prior to the poaching incident. "Someone out there has information on who shot this deer and where the deer head is located," said Fish and Game Conservation Officer Craig Mickelson. "I would like to talk with anyone that has information on this illegally shot deer." Anyone with information on this case can call the Citizen's Against Poaching (CAP) hotline at 1-800-632-5999 or the IDFG Nampa Office at 208-465-8465 or the Deer Flat Refuge at 208-467-9278. Citizens Against Poaching is offering a reward for information leading to a conviction in this case. Callers may collect a reward while remaining anonymous.