Courtesy photo
A total of 1,056 wild animals and fish were illegally harvested in Utah in 2023, a slight decrease from the number illegally killed in 2022.
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SALT LAKE CITY — In the wake of the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources’ recent press release, it has been revealed that the illegal killing of fish and wildlife in the state experienced a modest decline in 2023. The illicit harvest, numbering 1,056 animals, marks a slight reduction from the 2022 figures.
The combined value of the illegally killed wildlife amounted to over $619,000, representing a concerning impact on Utah’s diverse ecosystems. Among the unlawfully harvested animals were 133 deer, with 23 classified as “trophy” animals, 150 elk (31 trophies), four moose, 11 bison, seven bears, and 485 fish. Additionally, various small game animals, waterfowl, and other wildlife species were victims of illegal harvesting.
A comparative overview of the past few years reveals the persisting challenge:
- 2022: 1,283 wild animals, valued at over $609,000.
- 2021: 1,153 animals, valued at more than $610,000 (due to several big game animals being classified as “trophy” animals).
- 2020: 1,079 animals, valued over $387,000.
- 2019: 1,065 animals, valued over $384,000.
Despite conservation efforts, a total of 4,567 violations were issued in 2023, a rise from 4,074 citations in 2022. Common offenses included fishing or hunting without a valid license.
In response to these violations, 46 individuals faced hunting or fishing privilege suspensions in Utah in 2023, showcasing a decrease from the previous year. The state reported 66 suspensions in 2022, 54 in 2021, 35 in 2020, and 84 in 2019.
Utah’s membership in the Interstate Wildlife Violator Compact ensures that license suspensions are recognized across all U.S. states except Hawaii, emphasizing the serious consequences of such offenses.
DWR Captain Chad Bettridge expressed concern about the impact of illegal wildlife killing on the state’s biodiversity, stating, “Each animal that is illegally killed in our state is one less animal for legal hunters, wildlife enthusiasts, and everyday residents to enjoy. Poachers steal our ability to enjoy Utah’s wildlife.”
To combat these illegal activities, the DWR employs five K-9 officers who investigate wildlife cases, locate illegally killed animals, find hidden evidence, and contribute to various tasks. In 2023, DWR’s K-9 officers participated in the investigation of 114 cases across the state.
Citizens are encouraged to report illegal wildlife activities through various channels, including the Utah Turn-in-a-Poacher hotline, the UTDWR Law Enforcement app, texting officers at 847411, or reporting online through the DWR website. The public’s cooperation is crucial in enforcing wildlife laws, maintaining healthy populations, and ensuring the safety of outdoor recreators.
Bettridge emphasized, “Our officers can’t be everywhere at once, so we need your help. Please keep your eyes and ears open and report any suspicious wildlife-related activity to us. Working together, we can enforce wildlife laws to maintain healthy populations and also keep those recreating outdoors safe.”
For those interested in learning about legal hunting and fishing practices or common mistakes to avoid, the DWR website provides valuable resources.