(WWJ) The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is hoping someone out there knows who illegally shot a bear, leaving her cubs without a mother.
Conservation officers in northwest Michigan are asking for information regarding the bear that was shot in Oceana County earlier this week.
She was euthanized due to the extent of her injuries, officials said, leaving behind three cubs which were taken to a wildlife rehabilitator.
Following a call to the DNR’s Report All Poaching hotline, conservation officers found the bear around 8:15 a.m. Thursday in the Ruby Creek, located near Riverbend Road, northwest of the Ruby Creek Tavern in Branch Township.
When the officers arrived, the bear was near the edge of the creek, trying to get out of the water, and her three cubs had climbed into a nearby tree. Due to a gunshot wound, the bear was unable to move its rear legs, offiials said. A wildlife biologist examined the bear and determined it needed to be euthanized.
Officers estimate the bear was shot Tuesday or Wednesday. (See map above for the location)
"It’s a shame this bear had to be euthanized,” said Lt. Joe Molnar. “The bear suffered needlessly, while trying to take care of her cubs. If you or anyone you know has information that can help us solve this crime, we want to hear from you.”
Anyone with information about this poaching incident can call or text the RAP hotline at 800-292-7800, available 24/7. Information can be left anonymously, and cash rewards are available for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of violators. During 2019, more than $9,700 was awarded for information that led to the arrest and conviction of poachers.