Long horns of the law
In keeping with a recent thrust to protect wintering animals, Colorado wildlife officials ticketed an Alaska man for harassing wildlife while collecting shed antlers. Jonah Stewart, 21, was fined $137 and assessed 10 penalty points against hunting and fishing privileges when a Division of Wildlife officer observed him deliberately walking through a deer herd, forcing animals to move through deep snow in difficult conditions. Stewart, who was carrying antlers, confessed to pursuing the herd in search of dropped antlers. In a severe winter when deer and elk are particularly stressed by cold and snow, wildlife officials have warned against disturbance – particularly by those who might be seeking antlers the animals shed this time of year.
Bighorn appreciation
Wildlife enthusiasts are invited to honor bighorn sheep at the inaugural Bighorn Sheep Festival on Saturday, in Colorado Springs. Events take place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Garden of the Gods park visitor’s center at 1805 N. 30th St. Events include wildlife viewing stations, guided nature walks, children’s interactive wildlife programs and seminars. All of the activities are free and open to the public. For more information, call 719-227-5221 or 719-219-0108.
