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!!! $2,500 Fine And Hunting Ban For Shooting Bald Eagle!

August 27, 2009 - International, National and Local News

CPF Postmaster Reports:
A Thunder Bay man has been fined $2,500 and prohibited from hunting for three years for shooting and killing a bald eagle. Shawn A. Bowes pleaded guilty to charges under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act. The eagle carcass was forfeited to the Crown. Bowesâ firearm was seized by conservation officers and will be returned once his fine is paid.   Court heard that on June 1, 2009, conservation officers investigated a report of gunfire at Bowes property and discovered a decaying bald eagle carcass in his yard. Bowes admitted to shooting the eagle in the summer of 2008.   The bald eagle is a specially protected raptor under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, and is protected from being hunted or trapped throughout Ontario. Bald eagles are also considered a species of special concern under Ontario’s Endangered Species Act.

Justice of the Peace Ray Zuliani heard the case in the Ontario Court of Justice, Thunder Bay, on August 5, 2009.

To report a natural resources violation, you can call 1-877-TIPS-MNR (1-877-847-7667) toll-free anytime or contact your local MNR office during regular business hours. You can also call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).