TYRRELL COUNTY, N.C. — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are offering a $2,500 reward for information about the shooting of an endangered red wolf.
The radio-collared wolf was found dead Jan. 18 north of Fairfield in Tyrrell County.
The red wolf was declared an endangered species in 1967 and is protected under the federal law. The maximum criminal penalties for the unlawful taking or killing of the animal are a one-year imprisonment and a $100,000 fine per individual.
About 100 red wolves roam their native habitats in five northeastern North Carolina counties. Red wolves are known for the reddish color behind their ears and along their neck and legs, but they are mostly brown.
Officials say that 10 red wolves were shot to death in 2012.
Anyone with information regarding the death of this red wolf or any others should call 919-856-4786, 252-216-7504 or 252-216-8225.