Because federal law protects wild burros, anyone convicted of killing one could face penalties of up to one year in prison and thousands of dollars in fines. | Photo: iStock

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Nye County, Nevada, Sheriff’s Office are seeking those responsible for shooting and killing more than a dozen wild burros outside Beatty.

Kyle Hendrix, BLM Nevada spokesman, said three wild burros were found dead of gunshot wounds near the BLM Battle Mountain District’s Bullfrog Herd Management Area on May 5. Investigators later discovered the remains of 10 more burros. Hendrix said the location of the carcasses and their condition indicate the deaths are all linked.

Because federal law protects wild burros, anyone convicted of killing one could face penalties of up to one year in prison and thousands of dollars in fines