Archer shooting deer in Colorado Springs neighborhood

Someone is using a bow and arrows to shoot deer in the Rockrimmon neighborhood in northwest Colorado Springs. In the past two weeks, the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) has found evidence that at least three deer were shot with arrows in the vicinity of Allegheny and Oak Hills.

“In each case, the deer where shot with archery equipment,” said District Wildlife Manager Steve Cooley.

Anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity, or has information about this case, is asked to contact the DOW at (719) 227-5282. Or, they can call Operation Game Thief toll-free at 1-877-265-6648.

“Not only is shooting deer outside the established hunting season illegal, but it is an extremely dangerous activity in a crowded residential neighborhood,” said Cooley.

The DOW urges people to call whenever they have information about illegal hunting or fishing activities. Callers do not have to reveal their names or testify in court. Operation Game Thief gives rewards if the information results in a ticket being issued.

Wildlife officers say that help from the public is often the only way that poachers are apprehended.

No one knows the exact figures, but some studies indicate poachers may kill almost as many animals and fish as legitimate hunters and anglers take during legal seasons.

The Colorado Division of Wildlife is the state agency responsible for managing wildlife and wildlife habitat, as well as providing wildlife related recreation and maintaining a balance between human activities and wildlife. Funding for the Division of Wildlife comes from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses and the habitat fees collected in conjunction with those sales. The Division does not receive tax dollars from the Colorado general fund.