FREMONT COUNTY, Ida. — Idaho Fish and Game is offering a $40,000 reward for information leading to a citation and conviction in the killing of a female grizzly in Fremont County.
The incident which is believed to have occurred between Mar. 15 and Mar. 23, took place near the Pole Bridge Campground in Island Park. This area is just 10 miles west of Yellowstone National Park.
Last month, Fish and Game were alerted by a mortality signal from the bear’s collar, and eventually discovered the bear’s carcass lying partially submerged in the Little Warm River. Further investigation revealed that the bear had died from multiple gunshot wounds. Later, an investigation of the female grizzly’s den site revealed a six to eight week old cub that also perished as a result of her death.
In Idaho, Grizzly bears are protected by both state and federal law with no current hunting season. Fish and Game is asking for information from the public to help solve the case.
“The loss of a reproductive female grizzly is a real tragedy,” said Regional Conservation Officer Doug Petersen. “Someone out there knows what happened to this bear and we are asking them to come forward and share that information with us.”
As bears begin to emerge this spring season with their cubs, Wyoming Game and Fish reminds residents and vistors to be bear aware in order to protect their wellbeing and safety. While grizzlys are a popular and captivating attraction, it is critical to give them space and to photograph from a distance.
