Written by Bill Rautenstrauch, The Observer
Oregon State Police Fish & Wildlife Division troopers are continuing to ask for the public’s help for information related to the death of a possible wolf found in mid-March in Union County.
Genetic tests to confirm if the animal is a wolf are still pending completion, but the OSP said the investigation confirmed the animal’s death was the result of a criminal act.
The Humane Society of the United States and The Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust are offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible in this case.
On March 16, OSP Fish & Wildlife Senior Trooper Kris Davis received a call regarding the discovery of a dead possible wolf on private property about six miles north of Cove.
Davis and Sergeant Isaac Cyr responded and contacted the property owner and the person who reported finding the animal that morning to Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife.
After taking possession of the 97-pound animal, OSP took it to a local veterinarian for X-rays. The initial examination didn’t confirm a cause of death.
A necropsy confirmed the animal had been dead about one week and the cause of death was the result of a criminal act.
Wolves are protected by the state Endangered Species Act throughout Oregon. Except in the defense of human life or with a special permit, it is unlawful to kill a wolf. Doing so is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine up to $6,250.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Davis at 541-963-7175, ext. 4673 or email kris.davis@state.or.us.
Questions regarding the reward offer can be directed to Stephanie Twining at 301-258-1491 or email at stwining@humanesociety.org.