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ST. GEORGE — The shooting and subsequent death of a bald eagle near Cedar City earlier this year has prompted an investigation by Utah Division of Wildlife Resources conservation officers who seek information about the incident.
The injured bald eagle was discovered near 4500 West in Cedar City on Feb. 29, according to a news release. Responding conservation officers discovered that the eagle had been shot through the wing with what appeared to be a rifle.
Unfortunately, the injuries were severe, and it was determined that the eagle would not recover, resulting in it being euthanized.
The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act was enacted in 1940 and prohibits anyone — without a permit issued by the Secretary of the Interior — from killing bald or golden eagles or taking their parts, including feathers, nests or eggs. The individual involved in this incident could be facing a third-degree felony charge of wanton destruction of protected wildlife.
Anyone with information regarding the illegal killing of this eagle or any other wildlife-related crimes in Utah is encouraged to report it to DWR conservation officers through one of the following:
- Calling the UTiP Hotline at 800-662-3337
- Use the UTDWR Law Enforcement app
- Text 847411
- Access the DWR website; however, contact with an officer may be limited with this option
Anyone with information regarding this specific case should contact Officer Jeremy Butler at 435-310-0238. A reward may be available for information leading to the successful prosecution of those responsible. Requests for confidentiality are respected.
Every year, Utah conservation officers conduct numerous investigations into the illegal killing of wildlife. In 2023, officers confirmed a total of 1,056 wild animals and fish were illegally killed, valued at over $619,000.