In two apparently unrelated incidents that wildlife officials believe are connected to illegal shootings during the ongoing hunting season, two radio-telemetry collars that were attached to lynx have been recovered in southwest Colorado. The first collar, cut from a male animal born in 2004, was dropped into a slot at the Silverton post office Oct. 26. Division of Wildlife officials found the second collar Oct. 27 in the snow on Missionary Ridge 20 miles northeast of Durango after a mortality signal was transmitted via a satellite uplink. This female, released in 2004, gave birth to three kittens in May or June. Officials project the kittens are too young to survive on their own. DOW has conducted a continuing lynx reintroduction program in the state. About 200 animals are believed to be alive. Eight conservation organizations have joined to offer a $3,400 reward for information leading to a conviction in the lynx deaths. To file a report, call 303-447-8655, ext. 1.
