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MURRAY — Anyone with information about the person or people who may have shot two ferruginous hawks earlier this month may receive a $5,000 reward.
The Humane Society of Utah is offering the reward to anyone who can give information that may lead to the arrest and conviction of whomever caused the birds' death, it announced Tuesday.
The HSU hopes the reward helps the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources to identify and charge whomever committed the "wanton act of animal cruelty."
"This is a federal offense and the person or people responsible for this senseless act need to be held accountable to the full extent of the law," HSU chief investigator John Fox said in a statement. "We hope the reward helps the DWR make a conviction."
The HSU said they express sympathy to those who have worked hard to help the birds and wants the public to understand it's important to protect them.
A Raptor Inventory Nest Survey volunteer, Candice Fitches, found the birds July 8 and noticed suspicious ATV tracks near the nest. The DWR is investigating the situation.
Anyone with information regarding the person or people who may have shot the birds can call the DWR hotline at 800-662-3337 or John Fox at 801-261-2919 ext. 210. Tipsters can remain anonymous if they wish.
