Not just any decoys, either – Idaho is using state-of-the-art ASAs that are as close to the real thing as you can get, and will stop illegal hunters in their tracks.
Idaho Fishing and Game officials are through messing around with illegal hunters. In an unprecedented effort to catch these criminals in the act, the state is bringing in some amazing – and unlikely – help.
From now forth, poachers and illegal hunters in Idaho will have to decide if their target is real – or a police decoy. Sounds easy enough for a sharp hunter, right? It would be, if Idaho was investing in cardboard and foam. But These aren’t just any decoys. Idaho is bringing in the big guns – er, robots – in the form of incredibly-lifelike ASAs.
Idaho hunting decoys “as close to the real thing as you can get”
ASA stands for Artificial Simulated Animal – and they’re as close to the real thing as you can get, too. Each “unit” is made to represent a specific native species. In this case (pictured below), it’s a moose. But officials are bringing in elk, deer, and a few other undisclosed animals, as well. Each robotic decoy is capable of movement, sound, and just enough lifelike behavior to fool any would-be poacher.
Idaho police will be placing each ASA decoy within areas known for illegal hunting activity. The rest, however, is up to the states criminals to gamble with their own fates.
What’s at stake for those Idahoans illegally hunting? According to Fox News’ report on the matter:
“Officers will observe the ASA decoys and take action against any hunter that shoots at one. Offenders can face a fine of up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail. Authorities will also be issuing citations for shooting from a road, shooting from a motorized vehicle and other infractions.”
Fox News
As a result, state officials will be given authority to make arrests based on those firing on the decoys.
“Officers watch the animals and respond if someone violates the law”
In addition, Fox News says officials are setting up the decoys in areas of high trespass-hunting, road-hunting, and spotlighting.
“Officers watch the animal and respond if someone violates the law,” adds Greg Wooten to the news channel. Wooten is the Fish and Game chief of enforcement for Idaho. “This tool is extremely important in our effort to curtail illegal activity that is otherwise undetectable. This is similar to other law enforcement agencies watching an intersection based on reports of frequent instances of failing to stop at a stop sign, or monitoring speed compliance using radar.”
Best of luck to the men and women on Idaho’s police force in stopping their current wave of illegal hunting. Hopefully the mere knowledge of knowing these decoys are out there will make criminals think twice before heading into local forests.
[H/T Fox News]
