Wyoming Game and Fish Department monitoring wildlife impacts due to wildfires in northeast Wyoming

The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is reporting that due to the multiple fires in northeast Wyoming, a wildlife survey will be taking place to determine the toll on wildlife. 

The Department reports where safe to do so, Game and Fish wildlife managers are searching burned areas to determine the loss of wildlife and euthanize injured animals. Members of the public who see an injured animal can report the location to the Stop Poaching Hotline at 1-877-WGFD-TIP. The hotline operates 24 hours a day and reports are sent to the nearest wildlife manager to respond. 

The largest of these wildfires currently is the House Draw Fire. The suspected lightning-caused fire was initially reported southeast of Buffalo. As of 9:30 p.m. on Aug. 22, it has grown to more than 174,000 acres, crossed Interstate 90 and spread north/northeast, as well as further south. At this time, it is not contained. The burned area is currently located within Elk Hunt Area 129, Antelope Hunt Areas 16 and 22, and Deer Hunt Areas 26 and 29. 

Game and Fish wildlife managers are continuing to monitor other wildfires in northeast Wyoming and their potential impact to wildlife and habitat, and will provide additional public information to hunters if conditions warrant.