Wildlife Officials Investigate Illegal Shooting of Bull Elk

(KLIX) – Wildlife officials are investigating the shooting of a bull elk that left the animal injured near Orofino.

A landowner on the night of Tuesday, Oct. 1, reported hearing a gunshot near Harmony Heights Loop Road, according to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. Early the next day the landowner found the wounded elk in a field and called authorities.

Fish and Game said biologists determined that the elk was shot in its spine with a rifle. There currently is no open hunting season in the area.  A county deputy was called to the scene to dispatch the elk, the department said.

Authorities are seeking information about the wildlife crime, asking that anyone with information to contact Senior Conservation Officer John McLain at 208-827-1488 or call the Citizens Against Poaching hotline 800-632-5999.

The department said callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.