Poacher kills moose near Lake Wenatchee. State officers ask for public’s help

One of the few moose seen near Lake Wenatchee in Chelan County has been poached, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The carcass of the animal was found in a clearing about 50 yards from a read near Meadow Creek, the department’s law enforcement division reported Saturday.

Only the head and a limited amount of meat were taken.

Officers recovered evidence from the area where the moose died and also are reviewing security footage from nearby roads.

There is no hunting season for moose in the area. Killing a moose out of season carries a maximum penalty of $5,000 and up to a year in jail, in addition to a criminal wildlife penalty of $4,000.

Police officers are requesting that anyone with information call Fish and Wildlife at 509-662-0452. Callers who provide information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward or bonus points for special permit hunts.

This story was originally published November 18, 2017 at 4:15 PM with the headline "Poacher kills moose near Lake Wenatchee. State officers ask for public’s help."