Several species of raptors, including hawks and owls, were illegally shot and killed in southern Utah over the last few months, wildlife officials said.
Eleven birds were found shot and killed between December and February, the Utah Department of Natural Resources said in an emailed news release on Feb. 27.
Natural Resource officers determined all of the birds were killed with a firearm, and some “appeared to have been shot out of their roosts, while others were shot inside of barns,” officials said.
“Based on witness reports, it is believed that individuals are shooting raptors from their resting locations at nighttime, and those involved have even trespassed on private property and shot within close proximity to homes during these incidents,” Natural Resources officer Jeremy Butler said in the release.
The birds were found in and around communities in Beaver County, about a 230-mile drive southwest from Salt Lake City.
Raptors are protected by state and federal laws and it’s illegal to kill them, officials said.
The person or people involved in killing the birds could face third-degree felony charges.
Anyone with information about the illegal killings of the birds or any other wildlife is encouraged to report it to the Utah Division of Law Enforcement by calling the UTiP Hotline at 800-662-3337, by texting 847411 or by reporting it on the agency’s mobile app.
Those with information on this case can also call Butler at 435-310-0238. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward for information leading to the prosecution of those responsible, officials said.
This article by Brooke Baitinger was first published by BND.com on 27 February 2025. Lead Image: Several species of raptors were illegally shot and killed overnight in Utah, wildlife officials say. Photo by Joshua J. Cotten via Unsplash
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