MARINETTE COUNTY, WI (WTAQ) – The DNR is investigating what they believe to be poisoning of dogs and wildlife in Bayfield, Marinette and Florence Counties.
Dead domestic dogs, coyotes, weasels, raccoons and a wolf were already reported.
DNR officials say they have found meat that has been dropped in rural areas that has something inside that is believed to be poison.
“I guess what I would describe as a kind of a softball-sized chunk of what appears to be ground meat with something mixed in it.”
DNR Lt. Andrew Lundin says there are also noticing some similarities with the areas that the poison is being found.
“It is kind of the Northern part of the county near forest land, these are big wooded areas.”
While the Lundin says they are not trying to cause a panic, it is unknown if other counties have been affected.
“Something is going on and it looks intentional and we just don’t know how widespread it is.”
He says based on the technique used and location, the fear is that one of the endangered animals is being targeted.
“We believe that at least in part, one of the targeted species could be a wolf.”
Unfortunately, the actions are killing other wild animals as well as pets.
Lundin says in the two reports of the deceased dogs, the poison took over very fast.
“Whatever it is that we are dealing with has a very fast impact on whatever is ingesting it.”
The DNR says they hope testing will be able to determine what the substance is and how much might be out there.
The samples and animals have been sent in for testing. Lab tests are underway to confirm the cause of death.
For now, people walking their pets are recommended to keep them on leashes and to restrict their movements off roadways and into contact with the possible poison.
Lundin says if anyone comes across a dead animal that appears to have suspiciously died, they want to know about it.
