The Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) has received a rising number of reported missing and harmed livestock this year.
“Our department has been investigating a substantial amount of cases of missing livestock and suspicious livestock deaths this year,” said Leann Hunting, UDAF animal industry director. “While we don’t know the exact cause of the increase in cases, it is very concerning, and we want to raise awareness of these happenings.”
As of July, the department has received missing livestock reports for 77 cattle, five horses/mules and one sheep/goat. Out of the 83 animals, only seven have been found. UDAF has also received seven reports of suspicious livestock deaths that are currently under investigation.
The department said the fall months tend to have an increase in thefts or deaths, and UDAF recommends producers monitor their herds closely and report any missing or harmed livestock to their local brand inspector.
