Authorities Seek Public’s Help in Illegal Killing of Raptors in Southern Utah

Law enforcement officers with the Utah Department of Natural Resources are seeking information after multiple raptors, including hawks and owls, were illegally shot and killed in Beaver County. Over the past several months, 11 birds have been found dead in and around Manderfield and Greenville, all determined to have been killed with a firearm.

“Based on witness reports, it is believed that individuals are shooting raptors from their resting locations at nighttime, and those involved have even trespassed on private property and shot within close proximity to homes during these incidents,” Natural Resources Officer Jeremy Butler said in a press release. Some of the birds were shot from their roosts, while others were killed inside barns.

All raptors are protected under state and federal law, making it illegal to harm them. Killing a raptor is considered a serious offense, and those responsible could face a third-degree felony, which carries significant penalties, including fines and possible jail time. Raptors play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling rodent and small animal populations, making their unlawful killing a threat to local ecosystems.

Authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying those involved. “This is a troubling pattern of illegal activity that not only violates wildlife protection laws but also endangers public safety,” Butler added. “We need the community’s assistance in stopping these senseless killings.”

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Anyone with information is encouraged to report it through the Utah Turn-in-a-Poacher (UTiP) Hotline at 800-662-3337, the UTDWR Law Enforcement app, or by texting 847411. Individuals can also contact Officer Jeremy Butler directly at 435-310-0238. A reward may be available for information leading to a successful prosecution, and requests for confidentiality will be honored.