Reward offered to solve killings of two gray wolves

Federal authorities investigating the November killing of two gray wolves in northern Minnesota have issued a reward for information about the person or persons responsible for shooting the animals.

Officials with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said the wolves were killed on or around Nov. 9. One wolf was shot northwest of Grand Rapids, and the other was killed northwest of Two Harbors. The wolf killed near Two Harbors had been fitted with a radio tracking collar.

Jane Hodgins, spokeswoman for the agency, said investigators do not know how many people were involved in the killings or whether the two incidents are related.

Gray wolves are listed as a threatened species in Minnesota under the Endangered Species Act, which forbids the killing of the animals. Offenders face up to six months in prison and a $25,000 fine. About 2,900 gray wolves live in the state.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will provide up to a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the killings.

The agency has asked that anyone with information about the incidents contact either the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources TIP line at: 1-800-652-9093, or call Special Agent Ron Kramer at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at: 218-720-5357. Callers can remain anonymous upon request.