Wolf found poisoned to death in Idaho wilderness area
KTVB.COM
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agents have confirmed a male gray wolf found dead in central Idaho was poisoned to death.
The collared wolf, known as B-204, was found to have been killed by ingesting meat laced with a grey granular poison known as “Temik,” a restricted use pesticide commonly applied to agricultural crops such as potatoes.
The wolf had been collared by Nez Perce Tribe wolf recovery personnel in Trapper Creek, a Middle Fork Salmon River tributary, on June 27, 2004. At that time, biologists estimated the wolf to be about one to two years old.
On May 14, 2005, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game received a mortality signal from B-204’s radio collar. The animal was found within yards of a pack trail in the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness Area, in the Clear Creek tributary of Panther Creek.
Special agent Scott Bragonier cautions outdoor enthusiasts about exposure to suspicious bait or grey granules on the ground, and says to contact law enforcement authorities immediately if located.
In this case, Temik not only killed a gray wolf, but it also poses a potential public safety hazard. We are very interested in finding whoever is responsible for the crime. If anyone has information about illegal use of chemicals or the killing of wolves, please contact the Services Law Enforcement Division. Callers may remain anonymous, said Bragonier.
The killing of an animal protected under the Endangered Species Act is punishable by a fine of up to $100,000 and one year in jail.
Persons with information about this case, or any other illegal wolf killings, are urged to call Service Law Enforcement at (208) 523-0855, or to call the Idaho Citizens Against Poaching Hotline at 1-800-632-5999.