An active search is underway for two men suspected of poaching a black bear from private property in Oso, Washington. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) received a tip regarding the incident on September 20, prompting an investigation.
Video footage shows two men, dressed in hunting attire and wearing caps, arriving at the location around 7:00 p.m. They were seen picking up a dead black bear and leaving the scene. One of the men is seen dragging the animal and then carrying it. The second man was observed holding a rifle. The men appeared to be giggling as they took the bear.
The WDFW stated that the bear was taken from a restricted area, despite a "no trespassing or hunting" sign being visible in the background of the video. While the fall black bear season is open, the suspects allegedly violated regulations by trespassing on private property without permission.
Officials are asking for the public's assistance in identifying the men, the weapon shown in the video, and the current whereabouts of the bear. Becky Elder, a spokesperson for WDFW police, emphasized the importance of public tips in combating poaching, describing the public as "the eyes and ears that lead to potential arrests."
Charges for hunting while trespassing, a misdemeanor offense, could result in a fine of up to $500 and a jail sentence of up to one year. Convicted individuals may also face revocation of their hunting licenses and additional hunting suspensions.
The Washington Big Game Hunting season runs from August 1 to November 15. Hunters are required to possess a valid license and a hunting tag. Regulations permit pursuing up to two black bears, with a requirement to extract and submit a tooth from each bear harvested.
The bear in the video is believed to be approximately two years old and not a cub. Poaching on private property carries significant consequences under state law.