ADFG Secures, Relocates Game Animals From Haines Wildlife Facility

The following is courtesy of the Alaska Department of Fish and Game:

State Secures Game Animals from Facility in Haines

(Juneau) – On Thursday, June 26 and Friday, June 27, 2025, the Alaska Wildlife Troopers executed a search warrant at the Kroschel Wildlife Center in Haines as part of an active criminal investigation. During the operation, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game assisted by securing and relocating game animals from the facility.

A team of highly trained, experienced wildlife veterinarians, biologists, and technicians were able to secure a total of 39 animals from the facility. Species include brown bear, moose, wolf, lynx, fox, wolverine, ermine, mink, marten, snowy owl, and red-tailed hawk. Animals were assessed and monitored on-site by veterinary staff. The animals were subsequently transported to Anchorage by a combination of highway vehicle, aircraft, and boat. Animals were accompanied by department staff to Anchorage when practical, and all were met, both in Juneau and Anchorage, by wildlife staff upon arrival. Throughout the operation to secure animals and transport them to Anchorage each animal was fed and provided with water, and any veterinary care needed. Animals will be held and monitored until such time they are permanently placed in approved and permitted facilities.

The department knows some animals remain at the Kroschel Wildlife Center. This was anticipated prior to action on June 27, 2025. We are working on reconciling the number of animals that remain and securing a path for these animals.

“The health and safety of these animals is our highest priority. We are working tirelessly to ensure that every animal that was being held in trust at The Kroschel Wildlife Center is transferred to permanent homes in other approved educational facilities,” said Director Scott.

Regrettably, one wolf died prior to transport to Anchorage, and one snowy owl was euthanized after arriving in Anchorage due to pre-existing health conditions. Additional information on both mortalities will be made available after necropsies are conducted and pathology exams and analyses are completed over the next several weeks.

The safety and wellbeing of these animals remains our top priority, and we will make additional information available once we are able to release it.