MISSOULA, Mont. — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens are seeking the public’s help in gathering information on an unlawfully killed bull elk found on private property and left to waste. Only the head and backstraps were removed from the bull and all other meat was wasted.
The bull was killed on private property off of Horsethief Road, approximately 13 miles west of Roundup. The incident likely occurred between Jan. 30 and Feb. 1. Hunting for bull elk in this area has been closed since Dec. 21, 2025, when the Heritage Muzzleloader season ended. Additionally, hunters are prohibited from wasting any part of a game animal that is suitable for food, including the tenderloins, backstraps and all of the four quarters.
FWP is urging anyone who has information about the potential person or persons responsible to report it. To report information, contact game warden Randy Hutzenbiler at 406-694-2571 or visit tipmont.mt.gov. Those who report information may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.
About the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
Now in its fifth decade of Conserving America’s Big Game,™ RMEF will extend its impact on habitat and public land access to 10 million acres by 2030. RMEF conserves and enhances habitat for elk and all big game, opens and improves access for hunting and other outdoor recreation, conducts science-based wildlife research and ensures the future of our hunting heritage through advocacy, outreach and education. Members, volunteers and supporters nationwide help RMEF further its mission. Find out more and join the movement at rmef.org or 800-CALL-ELK.