Environment and Natural Resources NWT is currently investigating the deaths of several caribou from the critically threatened Bathurst herd.
Carcasses of eight caribou were found within the Mobile Zone approximately 360 km northeast of Yellowknife in the vicinity of Aylmer Lake on September 16. The Bathurst herd has declined from nearly 500,000 animals to just over 6200 over the last three decades.
Officers visited a site after receiving reports alleging caribou were harvested at a location within the Mobile Zone. Significant suspected wastage, including a nearly intact full caribou, were present.
This incident is being investigated for both alleged illegal harvest within the Mobile Zone, and the suspected wastage of caribou meat, both of which are offenses under the Wildlife Act.
The Mobile Zone was established and is implemented collaboratively by the GNWT and co-management partners across the region. Anyone who may have information about this incident, or any other cases of illegal harvesting, are asked to contact North Slave regional office of Environment and Natural Resources at 873-7181.
