Someone is shooting cattle across southern Idaho. Eight animals are dead. Their calves are orphaned. And investigators are still searching for answers.

Over the past several weeks, ranchers across Gooding, Jerome, Jefferson and Payette counties have reported shot cattle found dead in remote grazing areas. Idaho State Police have confirmed three animals were unlawfully killed and are working to determine if the incidents are connected. Another cow was shot as recently as last Thursday. Some of the animals were butchered after death. Others were simply left where they fell.

Many of the cows that were killed had calves. Those calves are now orphaned.

Idaho State Brand Inspector Cody Burlile said it best: "When people hear about livestock being shot, they often think only about financial loss. What they don't see is the suffering these animals endure, the impact on calves that depend on their mothers, and the effect on the livelihood of those who care for them. These aren't just property crimes we are investigating."

The financial losses already total in the thousands of dollars. But the human and animal cost goes far beyond that.

Investigators need the public's help. Anyone who was in remote grazing areas across these four counties and saw suspicious vehicles, gunfire, or unusual activity around livestock is being asked to come forward.

Sign this petition to demand a full coordinated investigation into the southern Idaho cattle shootings and justice for the ranchers and animals targeted.

Photo: Courtesy Creek Cattlemen’s Association East Idaho News