Castle Creek Outfitters
Minnesota Black Bear and Whitetail Guide Service.
While the killings
occurred on state land, they "would be considered unethical by most
people" because they were so close to the sanctuary, a DNR official said.
Two adult black bears were killed
near a northern Minnesota wildlife sanctuary, and a reward is being offered for
information leading to whoever is responsible.
The first bear was found dead
Saturday near the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary about
The bear found Saturday was
intact, but the second bear had its head, hide and paws removed, Payton said.
Its carcass was left behind, meaning that anyone responsible could be charged
with wanton waste. Punishment for that violation is a $274 fine and $400 in
restitution to the state.
While the killings did occur on
state land and during bear hunting season (Sept. 1-Oct. 12), the acts
"would be considered unethical by most people" because they happened
so close to a sanctuary, Payton said.
Bears "come and go
freely" to the sanctuary, Payton said, adding that these two were on
typical routes that bears take to the facility's feeding stations.
Payton said similar bear killings
occurred near the sanctuary in 1998 and 2004.
A reward of $2,250 is being
offered in these latest killings for information that leads to an arrest and
conviction. Calls are being accepted by the TIP (Turn in Poachers) hot line at
1-800-952-9093.
The 360-acre sanctuary draws
thousands of visitors every year to observe black bears' behavior, habitat
needs and life cycles.
In addition to being a seasonal
home to a more than 80 bears, the sanctuary includes whitetail deer, bald
eagles, beavers, mink, timber wolves, owls and ravens.
--Paul Walsh • 612-673-4482