The Conservation Officer Service is requesting the public's assistance in their investigation into illegal hunting of Roosevelt elk in the Cowichan Valley.
Throughout February and March, seven elk were found dead in various areas of the valley. The elk were found on private land, mostly in areas where hunting is not permitted due to public safety concerns.
The elk were from different herds, and all were female. Given the time of year, some of the elk could have been carrying calves. The carcasses had most of the edible portions of meat removed.
The rash of elk killings is of concern to conservation officers who consider these acts a public-safety issue, and a risk to the long-term health of the elk population.
If the public has any information about these or any other poaching incidents, they are asked to call the Report all Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1 877-952-7277 or online at:
www.env.gov.bc.ca/cos/rapp/form.htm
The BC Wildlife Federation pays rewards up to $5,000 for information leading to the conviction of persons who have violated laws related to the protection of fish, wildlife or the environment.
