The Humane Society of the United States and The Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust are offering two rewards of up to $2,500 each for information about two separate incidents of poaching on Whidbey Island in the last few weeks.
According to a published media report, two separate shootings of red-tailed hawks on Whidbey Island have occurred. In both cases, the wounds were so severe that the birds had to be euthanized. The first wounded hawk was found off Deer Run Road near Coles Road on Jan. 25. The second wounded bird was reported on Feb. 2 after being found along East Harbor Road near Goodell Road.
"These cases illustrate the callous nature of poachers and their often flippant participation in serious crimes," said Dan Paul, Washington state director for The HSUS. "The Humane Society of the United States applauds the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for strongly enforcing anti-poaching laws."
Red-tailed hawks are federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Hunting the birds is not allowed. If convicted, the poacher may face state charges and federal penalties.
HSUS says every year, thousands of poachers are arrested nationwide, but it is estimated that only 1 percent to 5 percent of poachers are caught. Poachers kill wildlife anytime, anywhere and sometimes do so in particularly cruel ways.
If you have information about this case you are asked to call the WDFW TIP Hotline at 1-877-WDFW-TIP (933-9847), Monday-Friday during the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you are calling outside of normal business hours call the Washington State Patrol at 509-227-6560.
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