Information sought in elk waste of game case in Southern Phillips County

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking information for “waste of game” of a bull elk killed in Hunting District 622 near McCarty Coulee, by Timber Creek Bay, in southern Phillips County. The elk was likely killed on Thursday, September 17.

FWP wardens Todd Tryan and Ben Morin said the elk, which had died from an arrow wound, had been partially skinned, poorly boned out, and had the head removed.

Over 23 pounds of meat were later removed by wardens from the quarters, and both tenderloins were not removed. Montana Hunting Regulations require that “all four quarters above the hock, including loin and backstrap are considered suitable for food.” Although not required by law, none of the substantial neck meat was removed.

“It’s unfortunate to see such careless disregard for the animal. The wasted meat could have been easily removed from the carcass,” said Morin.

Wardens came upon the elk on Friday, September 18, but it had likely been harvested on Thursday evening. Evidence of sex, which is required to be naturally attached to the carcass for transport, was left at the scene.

“It’s apparent that this hunter was more concerned about taking out the head and antlers rather than removing all of the meat and taking care of the animal,” added Tryan.

Anyone with information about the crime is encouraged to call Warden Tryan at 406-263-0067, Warden Morin at 406-654-7630, or FWP’s 24-hour wildlife tip line at 1-800-TIP-MONT (1-800-847-6668).

The 1-800-TIP-MONT program is a toll-free number where one can report violations of fish, wildlife or park regulations. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000 for providing information that leads to a conviction.

This information and more can be found on the FWP website at http://fwp.mt.gov/regions/r6/, or on the Region 6 Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MontanaFWP.R6.