IDFG Seeks Help In Solving Double Bull Moose Poaching In Grays Lake Area

BONE - Bone, Idaho may seem like the middle of nowhere, but it gets plenty of traffic, especially during the hunting season. Unfortunately, not everyone who visits the area is a sportsman; some that prowl the area are outright poachers and lawbreakers. Local IDFG conservation officers are seeking public assistance in solving a double bull moose poaching case that occurred earlier this month. According to Conservation Officer Eric Crawford, " The two bull moose were killed and just left to rot! One of the bulls had his antlers sawed off and the other still had its rack with a 46" spread." Because the animals were easily visible from a two-track road, it is possible that other activity in the area forced the wrong doers to move on before they could grab all their ill-gotten gains. Evidence found at the scene indicates that they may have bid a hasty retreat. The incident occurred in Bingham County near Horse Creek on Pine Mountain. The area is accessed via two-tracks that originate from the Long Valley Road, not far from Bone, Idaho. The violation was discovered by hunters who reported what they had seen when they passed through the Hillview check station last Sunday Not only is the person or person responsible for the killing and wasting of these animals guilty of violating a number of wildlife laws, according to Crawford, "The antlers left on the one bull should rate as trophy class with Boone & Crockett, so this could become a felony case." While officers collected forensic evidence, including animal tissue sample for DNA matching, the help of the general public is very much needed in helping produce a hot lead for this case of cold-blooded poaching. Persons with information should call the CAP (Citizens Against Poaching) Hotline at 1-800-632-5999. All callers remain confidential and cash rewards are possible.