Up to $25,000 Reward Offered for Information on Poaching of Elk and Bighorn Sheep in Arizona's White Mountains

Arizona's wildlife is under threat, and the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is on the hunt for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the poaching of several elk and bighorn sheep in the White Mountains. A staggering reward of up to $25,000 has been offered for tips that could help bring these poachers to justice, according to a report from FOX 10 Phoenix.

In a series of tragic events that have unfolded near Big Lake, a disturbing seven elk and two bighorn sheep were found dead. To date, no suspects have been identified. The first incident occurred on July 20, where poachers shot three cow elk near Forest Roads 249E and 24, around 8:15 p.m. A week later, on July 27, four additional elk—three cows and a bull—along with two bighorn sheep rams were mortally wounded, likely around 9:30 p.m., per details gathered from AZ Family.

These incidents are seen as more than just illegal hunting; they are direct attacks on the very future of Arizona’s wildlife heritage. In a candor reflection of the events, AZGFD called the acts "despicable" and has emphasised the magnitude of the loss, not only in terms of the present wildlife but also with respect to the untold future generations of elk that would have contributed to the ecosystem.

Individuals with any information on these heinous acts are urged to step forward and contact the AZGFD’s Operation Game Thief hotline at 1-800-352-0700, referencing case #25-002276. Reports can be made anonymously, upon request and those offering vital leads may find themselves rewarded with up to $25,000—a substantial increase from the previously reported amount of $20,000 by AZ Family. The Arizona Elk Society, and the Arizona Desert Bighorn Sheep Society, are contributing to this cause, in a collaborative bid to safeguard the state's cherished wildlife.