Warden Wire: WDNR Bureau of Law Enforcement investigating illegal shootings of elk
Jackson County, Wis. -- The Wis. Department of Natural Resources Bureau of Law Enforcement is investigating two illegal elk shootings in Monroe and Jackson Counties that occurred during the 9-day gun-deer season.
An adult bull elk was shot and killed after being misidentified by a man who was deer hunting near Warrens on Saturday, November 17. The individual who shot the elk self-reported the incident to the department after realizing he misidentified the elk for a deer.
The elk was seized and confiscated in accordance with Wisconsin law; and, all the meat will be salvaged and donated to the Jackson County Food Pantry.
The second elk, an adult cow, was shot on the Jackson County Forest on Monday morning, November 19. The DNR is looking for information to help identify a suspect in that case. Anyone with information regarding the case is encouraged to call the confidential tip line at 1-800-TIP-WDNR (1-800-847-9367).
For many years Hunter Safety classes in Wisconsin have stressed the importance of being sure of your target and what lies beyond as part of the TABK process.
Conservation Warden Lt. Robin Barnhardt said: “Hunters need to make sure they are always following the four rules of firearm safety. This ensures the safety of other people, but it is also necessary to avoid the accidental shooting of non-target animals. In addition, hunters that are within or near the Black River and Clam Elk ranges need to be aware that they may encounter an elk.”
Hunters can find a map of the two established elk ranges in Wisconsin by using keyword search “Elk” at dnr.wi.gov. Elk can occasionally be found outside of the designated elk ranges so it is important that hunters in areas adjacent to the elk ranges also be on the lookout for elk and properly identify their target.
Law enforcement questions should be directed to Lt Warden Robin Barnhardt WDNR West Central Region, 715-299-0564;Robin.Barnhardt@wisconsin.gov;
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