Sask. Wildlife Federation reports surge in unethical hunting complaints during elk hunt

WATCH: The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation says it has received dozens of complaints about unethical hunting following extra elk hunts.

The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation (SWF) said it’s received dozens of complaints about unethical hunting during the short-term antlerless elk hunt.

Executive Director Todd Smith said the SWF received roughly 20 complaints per day about animals being shot and left behind during the Nov. 23 to 27 hunt in the southern half of the province.

Smith believes shooting and abandoning a game animal is unacceptable.

“We would argue you’re into a poaching case and not a hunting case,” he said. “We classify that as waste of game. So unacceptable, both from a legal and ethical point of view.”

SaskTip recently shared images on social media of two elk that were shot and abandoned in the Spiritwood area.

It said conservation officers believe the shooter fired into a herd and may not have realized multiple animals were killed.

Smith said he suspects some people who took part in the hunt may not have been familiar with the rules and regulations, calling the situation concerning.

“It’s a waste of our resources. Wildlife in this province belongs to all citizens. Not only does this impact future populations, the meat and resource going to waste is a major concern.”

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In a statement to CTV News the Ministry of Environment said the antlerless hunt was introduced to address crop and property damage caused by high elk numbers.

With the hunt now over the ministry said hunter harvest surveys will help assess harvest levels and landowner access, which will guide future wildlife management plans.

The ministry also said conservation officers continue enforcement and compliance work throughout the season, and will respond to violations as needed.

Smith said he understands landowners’ concerns, but added Saskatchewan needs ethical, science-driven management to ensure wildlife is harvested responsibly and sustainably.