GREEN RIVER—Cokeville Game Warden Neil Hymas is investigating the illegal killing of a mountain lion in the Smiths Fork area near Cokeville. Anyone with information about any recent killing of a mountain lion, or someone possessing mountain lion parts, is encouraged to contact Wyoming Game and Fish Department authorities.
“The adult mountain lion carcass was discovered by recreationists in late July, in a remote, abandoned out-building in the Smiths Fork drainage north of Cokeville,” Hymas said. “Based on the condition of the carcass and other evidence, it is possible that the lion was killed during recent winter months and stashed at the old building site, possibly by someone on snowmobile. Because nobody returned to claim and register the mountain lion, it appears that this mountain lion was killed illegally.”
Mountain lions are classified as a trophy game animal in Wyoming, requiring hunters to possess a hunting license and Conservation Stamp. There are specific hunting seasons for the legal taking of mountain lions.
“During a period of several days between when the reporting party discovered the mountain lion and when they contacted authorities, an unknown individual or individuals moved the mountain lion carcass,” Hymas said. “If someone discovered that lion and took it, that is a violation because, in Wyoming, taking trophy game animal parts without contacting the Game and Fish Department to obtain an Interstate Game Tag is a violation. However, more importantly, this action impedes the investigation of the illegal killing of this mountain lion. In addition, the person or persons who moved the lion carcass could be involved in case. There is also a possibility that information posted on Facebook may have alerted others to the location of the lion carcass before the Game and Fish was notified of the discovery.”
Information about this poaching can be relayed to Cokeville Game Warden Neil Hymas at 307- 279-3466, or the Stop Poaching Hotline number at 1-877-WGFD-TIP (1-877-943-3847). Tips may also be reported online at wgfd.wyo.gov Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $5,000 if the information leads to a conviction.
