59 Ducks Found Illegally Wasted, Suspects Identified

Matt MacLeod for SPLIT REED

In mid-November this year, DWR officers received a civilian tip in regards to several ducks that were found in a dumpster in Salt Lake City. The officers discovered 59 ducks and one Western Grebe when they conducted an investigation of the area and found that no attempts had been made to utilize any of the meat from the birds.

Even if the ducks were legally harvested it is illegal to simply discard the animals without trying to salvage any usable meat from the birds. Avid hunters should know that it is important to practice legal and ethical behaviors while participating in this great sport.

Utah DWR officers recovered nearly 60 waterfowl in a wanton waste case mid-November. Photo courtesy of Utah DWR

DWR Officer Josef Lehr put out a statement thanking the members of the hunting community who take the time to report wildlife violations, since “countless cases are conducted every year because of assistance from the public.”

If you have any information regarding wildlife-related crime, we encourage you to contact the UTiP Hotline at 800-662-2337 or you can report any illegal wildlife activity on the DWR website.

Suspects have been identified in connection with the case in Utah. The DWR officers determined during their investigation that the ducks and grebe were harvested in Idaho and then hauled to and disposed of in Utah.

Instead of wasting duck meat, take the time to salvage and enjoy the product you worked hard to obtain. Next time you shoot some ducks try one of our recipes, and make something for friends and family to enjoy.