WATCH: Elk poaching on Vancouver Island is threatening one of BC’s most majestic animals. Linda Aylesworth reports.
Rampant poaching of Roosevelt elk on Vancouver Island has gotten to the point where residents are worried the species may completely die out in the area.
“It’s scary to think my children or great-grand children might not ever have elk again if this continues. That’s the path we’re on,” says Ken Watts, a member of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council.
Watts says 23 elk have been poached since the beginning of 2013, with perhaps the most heinous act taking place this week.
READ MORE: Nine were killed in 2013 alone
“You see this female elk laying there, just parts of it, not even cleaned. It was a disgusting act,” says Bruce Macdonald, who found a dead elk, partially stripped on the side of a road.
It was the last surviving mature bull of its herd. Elk hunting is off-limits between Port Alberni and Banfield and the Nuu-Chah-Nulth are offering a $31,000 reward for any information about the crimes.
“People who poach animals are criminals. Typically they’re involved in other criminal activity too. Why they would be doing it, we don’t have any information,” admits Steve Ackles, a Conservation Officer in Port Alberni.
If you have any information that could help in convicted those responsible, Ackles asks you to contact the Report Poaching and Pollution Hotline at 1-877-952-7277.
Watts hopes the case is solved before its too late.
“No matter who you are or where you come from, we’re going to make sure this is dealt with.”
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