The Utah Department of Natural Resources is seeking information from the public about the illegal killings of several raptor species, including hawks and owls, in Southern Utah over the last couple of months.
The birds were killed in and around Manderfield and Greenville in Beaver County between December 2024 and Feb. 11. Department officers have concluded firearms caused the deaths.
Some of the birds seem to have been shot from their nests, others from inside a barn.
“Based on witness reports, it is believed that individuals are shooting raptors from their resting locations at nighttime, and those involved have even trespassed on private property and shot within close proximity to homes during these accidents,” said Natural Resources Officer Jeremy Butler.
State and federal policies protect all raptors, and it’s illegal to kill these species. Those involved could face a three-degree felony.
Anyone with information about the illegal killing is encouraged to report it to the Utah Division of Law Enforcement by calling the UTiP hotline at 800-662-3337, the UTDWR Law Enforcement app or texting 847411. People can also contact Butler at 435-310-0238 with any information.
Information leading to the successful prosecution of those responsible may be eligible for a reward. Requests for confidentiality are respected.
Author: Maddi Munro
Photo courtesy of Dav Leigh
Editor: Chevy Blackburn
outdoors@suunews.net
