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Community and Conservation Groups Offer Reward For Information on Injured Refuge Bison
Midwest Region, December 30, 2004
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A refuge bison roaming the 750- acre bison and elk enclosure on Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, located near Prairie City, Iowa, was struck by an arrow during the holiday season. Biological Technician Jeff Krueger discovered the injured animal during his daily inspection on Dec. 28. The arrow seemed to be deeply embedded in the animal, extending out directly perpendicular to the midsection of the body. The animal continued to graze and walk the prairie, wary of Krueger's presence, but not in any obvious distress. The animal's blood stained hide indicated the wound was fairly fresh. Krueger relayed the news to Refuge Manager Nancy Gilbertson, who, after inspection, dispatched Mike Rich and Scott Ford to follow-up and document the incident. Gilbertson also contacted Dr. Dennis Rierdon, a large animal veterinarian at the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines. Dr. Rierdon examined the bison at the refuge, anesthetized the animal, removed the arrow and cleaned the wound. The arrow, which had penetrated the body of the bison approximately six inches, miraculously hit no vital organs. The injured bison is expected to make a full recovery. Reports of the shooting spread quickly and many individuals and organizations called to express their concern and offer support. The Defenders of Wildlife, the Humane Society, the Iowa Bow Hunters Association, the Friends of the Prairie Learning Center and a local resident have offered money for a reward, totaling $4,300, for information on the incident. Refuge Law Enforcement Officer John Below is investigating the incident with assistance from Iowa State DNR Officer John Mertz.

Contact Info: Midwest Region Public Affairs, 612-713-5313, charles_traxler@fws.gov



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