FWP Seeks Tips In Moose Poaching Case

On Saturday, September 7, FWP wardens responded to a call alerting them to a dead cow moose near Moser Creek Road in the Hyalite area. Wardens determined the moose had been shot, likely from the road. Anyone with information about this crime is urged to contact FWP and may be eligible for a reward:

FWP wardens received the call alerting them to a dead cow moose near Moser Creek on Saturday, September 7. The caller pointed out that a calf was present and could be heard crying out near the dead moose. When responding, wardens honed in on the carcass hearing the cries of the calf moose. The young moose acted aggressively when wardens approached attempting to protect the carcass of its mother. Wardens had to use a (non-lethal) rubber bullet to keep the animal away from the carcass when attempts to haze it with branches and rocks proved unsuccessful.

Wardens determined the dead cow moose had been shot twice and had likely been shot at from the road. Wardens also believe the incident to have occurred sometime between Friday afternoon and early Saturday morning. The moose hunting season in the area does not open until September 15.

"Killing and wasting an animal like this is stealing from the people of Montana," said Warden Brian Lloyd. "It's selfish and we take it personally."

Anyone with information about this crime is urged to call 800-TIP-MONT (800-847-6668). Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

The calf in this case is at least a year old and appeared to be very healthy. It has a fair chance at survival without its mother.