An abandoned black bear carcass found last week has conservation officers on the lookout for a suspected poacher.
Officers believe someone shot and killed the adult bear between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Wednesday and left it along on the Robert Campbell Highway eight kilometres east of Carmacks.
Conservation officials are asking the public to help solve the investigation.
Poaching incidents often happen in remote locations, making it difficult for officers to track down a suspect, said Tony Grabowski, manager of enforcement and compliance with Conservation Officer Services.
“A lot of these crimes take place in the wilderness, but occasionally we get lucky and a witness will see a vehicle and record a licence plate,” said Grabowski.
“Wildlife in the Yukon is something the general public likes to see looked after and they’re supportive of what we do.”
Anyone with information can contact the Yukon conservation branch or the Turn in Poachers hotline at 1-800-661-0525. Cash rewards are available. (JW)