RIGGINS, ID — A reward totaling $32,900 is now being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the illegal killing of a bighorn sheep ram near Riggins, according to the Idaho Wild Sheep Foundation and Idaho Fish and Game.
Idaho Fish and Game reports the ram was discovered on November 24 by a sportsman above Big Salmon Road near Partridge Creek. Investigators determined the animal had been shot sometime between November 20 and November 22 and left to waste, with no attempt made to recover it. Officials say the sheep was clearly shot in the head, and there was no open season for bighorn sheep in this portion of Game Management Unit 14, ruling out mistaken species hunting .
Fish and Game officials note the area is heavily used by sportsmen and the public, raising hopes that someone may have seen suspicious activity during that time frame. The case has drawn strong reaction locally due to the significance of bighorn sheep populations in Idaho.
The Idaho Wild Sheep Foundation has pledged funds to increase the Citizens Against Poaching reward, adding to contributions from supporters statewide. In a statement included by Fish and Game, foundation representatives emphasized the importance of protecting wild sheep, describing them as one of Idaho’s most valued wildlife species .
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Citizens Against Poaching at 800-632-5999 or the Idaho Department of Fish and Game Clearwater Region at 208-799-5010. Tips may be provided anonymously.
Officials continue to urge anyone who was in the area during the dates in question, or who may know someone who was, to come forward as the investigation remains ongoing.
