Pronghorn Fawn Dies, Public's Help Sought in Poaching Case

The fawn pronghorn that was shot through both legs and orphaned when poachers illegally killed the adult doe has died. Idaho Fish and Game is asking the public for any information regarding this wildlife crime. The adult doe pronghorn antelope and two abandoned fawns were found north of Mountain Home on June 2. Both animals were likely shot May 31 or June 1. "The seriousness of this poaching has risen now because there are now two illegally killed pronghorn," said Bill London, Idaho Fish and Game District Conservation Officer. The crime occurred just north of the Danskin Power Plant north of Mountain Home. The area is used frequently by recreational shooters and the officers hope that someone in the area knows something about the crime. Officers collected evidence from the scene and have talked with several people concerning possible suspects, but more information is needed. "Several people have provided us information and we're making progress on the case" said Greg Milner, Fish and Game Conservation and lead investigator on the case. "We just hope that someone provides us with additional information that will help bring the poachers to justice." The two fawns were transported to the Idaho Equine Hospital in Nampa where they received round-the-clock medical attention. The remaining fawn pronghorn has been placed with a wildlife rehabilitator, and once weaned Fish and Game will attempt to reintroduce it with other pronghorns north of Mountain Home. Anyone with any information on this crime is encouraged to call the Elmore County Sheriff's Office at (208) 587-3370 or the Citizens Against Poaching (CAP) hotline at 1-800-632-5999. Callers to the CAP hotline are eligible for a reward and can remain anonymous.