Authorities are trying to solve the mystery of a moose that was killed and left to rot.
A two-point bull was found five kilometres up the Deafies Creek forest service road, near Lumby, Oct. 7.
It may have been shot Oct. 4 or 5.
“It was shot and left. Nothing was taken,” said Brent Smith, a conservation officer.
“It’s a legal bull but the season doesn’t open until Oct. 15.”
It’s not known why someone killed the moose and didn’t remove any of the meat.
“They may have thought the season was open. There may have been a mistake in reading the regulations,” said Smith.
The other possibility is the animal was targeted by illegal hunters and they got scared off before they could take the meat.
In the case of an accidental shooting, those involved are asked to report the incident to conservation officers at 1-877-952-7277.
“We’re not out to hang anyone,” said Smith of possible fines.
“We just want to find out what may have happened.”
When moose or other wildlife is found abandoned, conservation officers make sure the meat doesn’t go to waste.
“We have given a couple away to the Salvation Army food bank and other organizations,” said Smith.
If anyone has information about the moose shooting at Deafies Creek, they are asked to call 1-877-952-7277.
