The Arizona Game and Fish Department is investigating the poaching of a cow elk, which occurred on Nov. 10 or 11 in southern Game Management Unit 5A about 10 miles north of Strawberry.
The elk was found near U.S. Forest Service Road 308H, which is a closed road near USFS Road 308. Evidence found at the scene indicates the poachers were likely camped off the closed road and they also illegally killed an unidentified non-game bird in the same location. There was no elk season going on at the time the poaching occurred.
“We are hoping the public may remember seeing a camp on the closed road during this particular weekend and can provide some vehicle or suspect descriptions,” Game and Fish Wildlife Officer Garrett Fabian said. “Getting some information now means we won’t have to wait a long time for lab results to come back to identify the suspects.”
Wardens are also investigating the poaching of a 7×7 bull elk found southeast of Flagstaff near Happy Jack. Hunters came across the carcass. Authorities say bears scavenged the remains leading them to believe it happened in early November.
Anyone with information about theses cases can call toll-free at (800) 352-0700 or use the online form at www.azgfd.gov/ogt.
(Photo source: Arizona Game and Fish Department)