Wyoming Game and Fish Department Director Brian Nesvik addressed the Sublette County wolf abuse case during a recent commission meeting, expressing outrage over the actions of Cody Roberts. Roberts admitted to running down a wild wolf with a snowmobile, binding its mouth with duct tape, and dragging it into a bar. Nesvik and other officials condemned the incident, stating it does not reflect Wyoming’s values for wildlife conservation. Roberts was fined $250 for possession of a live wild animal, prompting calls for stricter penalties.
Governor Mark Gordon also expressed his outrage, stating that cruelty to wildlife is unacceptable and does not represent the majority of Wyoming residents. Wildlife advocacy groups have offered rewards for additional evidence against Roberts and are advocating for stronger animal protection laws in the state. The incident has sparked national attention, with concerns raised over Wyoming’s wildlife management practices.
During a public comment period following the meeting, many individuals called for a ban on hunting using snowmobiles and eliminating the predator zone that covers 85% of the state. Some attendees, including wildlife advocates and photographers, emphasized the negative impact the incident could have on tourism revenue in Wyoming. Others criticized the department and commission for allowing unsporting methods of killing wildlife. Overall, the meeting highlighted the widespread disapproval of the cruel treatment of the wolf and the need for stricter regulations to protect wildlife in the state.
Source
Photo credit www.powelltribune.com