Reward available in eagle killings

SALT LAKE CITY  — Multiple shootings and poisonings of bald eagles and golden eagles over the past two years are prompting federal and state authorities to offer a $2,500 reward to catch the culprits.

The killings have happened throughout Utah, including Carbon, Emery, Millard, Summit and Utah counties. A reward of up to $2,500 is being offered for information leading to the successful prosecution of the person or persons responsible for killing eagles.

In early 2012 in Utah County, a golden eagle was shot with a small caliber rifle from a white SUV.

Between December 2010 and February 2012, four golden eagles were shot in one specific area in Millard County. In Carbon and Emery counties, several golden eagles were shot. In several other areas of Utah, eagles were poisoned.

Bald and golden eagles are protected under federal law and violations include fines and possible imprisonment.

Anyone with information concerning the shootings and/or poisonings of the eagles is asked to call U.S. Fish and Wildlife Office at 435-734-6446, or the state Division Wildlife Resources' tip line at  800-662-3337.

— Amy Joi O'Donoghue, Twitter: amyjoi16