Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Seeks Public Help in Hunt‑On‑Private‑Property Poaching Case A video showed two men allegedly poaching a dead black bear on private property in Oso, Washington. The state wildlife department is searching for the men, offering a reward for tips leading to arrest. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has issued a public appeal following a startling video that captured two men allegedly hunting a small, dead black bear on private property in Oso, Washington, last Sunday, September 20. According to the footage, the men approached the bear shortly before 7 p.m., one holding a rifle while the other hauled the animal off the screen. The WDFW released a statement that the activity occurred during open fall black‑bear hunting season but the location was clearly marked as private property, and the men had no permission for hunting or even for being on the premises.WDFW Seeks Help Identifying Oso PoachersThe department stated that the footage serves as evidence of poaching and trespassing, and that law‑enforcement authorities are currently investigating the incident. In a call to the public for assistance, WDFW has requested anyone with information about the two men's identities, movements, or any other details that could lead to an arrest. The agency has made clear that they are offering a monetary reward or a points bonus toward future special hunts for reliable information that results in an arrest.The WDFW's public tip line can be reached at 877‑933‑9847, and tips can also be emailed to the department's poaching tip inbox. Anonymous tips are welcomed, and the department reiterated that the reward is reserved for individuals who provide verifiable information leading to law‑enforcement action. The incident has already prompted a broader discussion about the regulation of hunting on private land in Washington.While the state's wildlife department opens the black‑bear season each fall and allows public hunting on state and federal lands, hunters must seek permission before entering private property. The WDFW noted that the location in question was not listed among the state's permitted hunting grounds, and the property had clear signage indicating private ownership.According to the department's statement, the bear had already been dead when the two men arrived, suggesting that the animals were not being pursued for sport but were instead taken for illicit consumption or sale. The Department's response highlighted the importance of safeguarding wildlife populations from illegal activity, especially as the fall season concludes in October.Investigation Continues in Oso Bear CaseWDFW's investigation is currently underway, and the department is collecting forensic evidence from the video, the site, and any other surveillance footage that might have captured the men. The agency also plans to interview witnesses, including nearby residents who heard noises during that time of night. WDFW officials are encouraging viewers of the video to contact the department if they have any information, including the appearance of the two men or any vehicles seen nearby.The department has also issued a press release asking the public to help keep the state's wildlife resources protected by reporting any illegal hunting or poaching. Besides this case, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is actively monitoring other potential violations across the state, including the recent accusations of a group of men who allegedly vandalized and stole wood from a private property in the Cascades.In that case, authorities say the group was involved in a broader pattern of illegal takings of timber for personal use. The WDFW's ongoing partnership with the state police and local sheriff's departments has been essential in tracking down individuals who ignore wildlife regulations. As the department's enforcement task force expands its reach, they emphasize that public reporting remains the most effective means of identifying poachers and protecting the state's animals from unsanctioned exploitation.Illegal Hunting on Private LandThe incident in Oso has also prompted media outlets to bring up the topic of illegal hunting specifically on private property. Los Angeles Times' Tag you near Washington feature has been quoting some wildlife experts who said that the problem remains widespread, especially in the urban-rural fringe areas where property boundaries are often unclear. Experts suggest that stronger enforcement and public education are needed to prevent such incidents from going unchecked.Without community involvement, authorities risk losing valuable information that could help prosecute offenders or halt illegal hunting operations. In conclusion, the WDFW's call for information regarding the two men captured in the Oso video shows the agency's commitment to protecting Washington's wildlife from poachers, especially during the high‑risk fall hunting season.By offering tangible rewards and partnering with the public, the department aims to reduce illegal hunting, uphold wildlife conservation laws, and ensure that state‑managed hunt seasons remain fair and law‑abiding. The incident demonstrates how technology and community vigilance can work together to catch reputable entities responsible for disrupting the ecological balance. As the investigation continues, WDFW urges residents, hunters, and interested parties to remain alert for any suspicious activity and to report promptly to law enforcement.The department's proactive stance reaffirms its mission to preserve Washington's wildlife for future generations while upholding strict adherence to state hunting regulations. The department's eagle-eyed approach to enforcing state wildlife laws and its dedication to public safety will hopefully prevent future incidents like the Oso poaching case and maintain trust among all stakeholders in the management of Washington wildlife.