Bighorn Ram Poached Near Townsend

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — State wildlife officials are investigating after a bighorn ram was illegally shot west of Townsend.

Fish, Wildlife and Parks wardens said Tuesday a 2-year-old ram was shot on the Indian Creek lime plant property within the last week and left to waste.

Warden Sgt. Dave Loewen called it a case of a "blatant disregard for wildlife," especially since bighorn sheep are just beginning to recover from a major die-off in the area several years ago.

Anyone with information on the poaching is asked to call (800) TIP-Mont. Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000.