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Make the call to catch poachers |
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September 18, 2017 |
By Mike Demick
IDFG Conservation Information Supervisor
With many hunting seasons in progress or about
to begin, the Idaho Fish and Game is asking the
public to call the Citizens Against Poaching
(CAP) hotline if they witness a violation of
fish and game laws.
“Calls from concerned citizens are instrumental
in catching poachers stealing from Idaho’s
citizens,” said Chris Wright, Fish and Game
assistant enforcement bureau chief.
Callers to CAP hotline, 1-800-632-5999, can
report wildlife law violations anonymously, 24
hours a day, seven days a week. Cash rewards are
available to callers who provide information
leading to the citation of suspected wildlife
law violators.
During the 35 year history, CAP has been an
important link to catching poachers. Each year,
CAP receives an average of 600 calls from the
public, which results in 150 citations issued
and $20,000 paid in rewards.
"Many hunters and anglers help us solve cases
regardless of the reward," said Wright. "But it
is a good added incentive for some.”
Rewards are: $200 for birds, fish and general
violations; $300 for most big game animals and
wild turkey; $600 for trophy species such as
bighorn sheep, mountain goat, grizzly, moose and
caribou. In special circumstances, these amounts
can be higher.
Citizens who report a wildlife violation are
encouraged to note as complete a description as
possible of people and vehicles involved as well
as report it as quickly as possible. But it’s
critical to never to put yourself in harm’s way
trying to get it.
“License plate numbers are extremely useful as
well as detailed information such as exact
location, time and description of suspects,”
Wright said. “But try to keep your distance and
never confront the suspects or put yourself in
jeopardy.”
Persons with any information about suspected
poaching activity are encouraged to call the CAP
hotline at 1-800-632-5999, report online at
https://idfg.idaho.gov/poacher, or contact their
local Fish and Game office. |
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