An elk in Yellowstone National Park munches on the last of summer's green grass as fall brings cooler temperatures. (Ruffin Prevost/Yellowstone Gate - click to enlarge)
From Staff Reports
Authorities in Yellowstone National Park are seeking information that would help identify the individual or persons responsible for illegally retrieving a bull elk carcass from inside the park last month.
Park rangers determined the bull was shot sometime between Sept. 11 and Sept. 21, inside the park’s southern boundary behind the Wyoming Game and Fish Department patrol cabin along Thorofare Creek, according to a statement released by the park’s public affairs office.
The Thorofare area that stretches across portions of the Bridger-Teton National Forest and the southeastern corner of Yellowstone includes some of the most rugged and remote territory in the country.
Hunters are reminded that hunting is not permitted within Yellowstone. Though most of the park boundary is well marked, it is the responsibility of the hunter to ensure he or she does not hunt within the park.
The Lacey Act and the Code of Federal Regulations strictly prohibit the killing or removal of any animal from inside Yellowstone. This includes animals shot legally outside the park that cross into and die within the park boundary. Taking and removing any animal parts, including shed antlers, is also prohibited.
Violators are subject to penalties including fines, restitution and the forfeiture of vehicles, equipment and personal property associated with the violations.
Anyone with information is requested to contact the Lake Ranger station at 307-344-2403, or call the Yellowstone Tip Line at 307-344-2132. In some cases a cash reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone illegally using firearms in the park or illegally killing or transporting wildlife in the park.
Contact Yellowstone Gate at 307-213-9818 or info@yellowstonegate.com.