Multiple Elk Poached In Southeast Colorado, Reward Offered For Information

Colorado Parks and Wildlife has called for assistance from the public to identify the individuals responsible for illegally poaching and abandoning four large bull elk on four separate ranches in Las Animas County.

Multiple elk poached, abandoned in Las Animas County; reward offered for information: https://t.co/cAeEILjRxR pic.twitter.com/iPS8e6wGsQ

— CPW SE Region (@CPW_SE) October 1, 2025

The elk were illegally shot on September 13th, 26th, and 27th, around the communities of Stonewall and Picketwire. One elk was shot and abandoned whole, one was wounded and had to be put down, one was shot with the backstraps removed, and the fourth had its head removed but no meat was taken.

“These were senseless and disgraceful acts which demonstrates a complete disregard for Colorado wildlife.” – Jim Hawkins, CPW Assistant Chief of Law Enforcement and Operation Game Thief Coordinator. 

Anyone with information about these crimes is asked to provide it anonymously through Operation Game Thief at 1-877-265-6648 or by email to game.thief@state.co.us. Anyone willing to testify about information they provide which leads to the filing of charges would be eligible for a preference point or hunting license. Tips that lead to a citation or an arrest could be for a $1,000 reward.

“Poaching is a serious, costly crime which harms legitimate sportspersons, wildlife viewers, small business owners and taxpayers. If convicted, a person charged with poaching violations could face heavy fines and suspension of hunting and fishing licenses.” – Colorado Parks and Wildlife

• Categories:  
• Colorado
• Wildlife