WDFW seeks information on killing of bighorn sheep in Asotin County

OLYMPIA – Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police are asking the public for information about the killing of a yearling bighorn ram outside Asotin in Asotin County either the night of Dec. 12 or early in the morning of Dec. 13.

The animal was shot and left to waste in the Peola Game Management Unit (GMU 178). Rewards are being offered for information leading to the conviction of the poacher. Illegally killing a bighorn sheep in Washington is a gross misdemeanor. It is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000. Additionally, a penalty of $4,000 (which doubles if the animal was shot with the aid of artificial light) can be assessed upon conviction. Hunting privileges can be suspended for up to two years.

To provide information on the case contact WDFW at 877-933-9847, email WDFW’s poaching tip email, or send a text tip to 847411. The public can also report online on WDFW’s website. Tips can be provided anonymously.

Awards by various groups and private citizens are contributing an award total of more than $60,000 in this case and in another case in Idaho. Washington Wild Sheep Foundation and Hunger Nation are among the groups offering rewards.

Bighorn sheep are the largest wild sheep in North America. They are considered a priority species which require protective measures for survival. Bighorn sheep hunting in Washington is a once-in-a-lifetime harvest opportunity limited to permit-only hunting. It is estimated that there are fewer than 70,000 bighorn sheep in North America today.

Photo from Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

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Elkhorn Media Group