Oregon State Police Fish and Wildlife Troopers are seeking the public’s assistance in locating whoever is responsible for the unlawful taking of a bull and cow elk near Wamic on the White River Wildlife area over the weekend.  Troopers were contacted by an Oregon Department of Wildlife employee after learning a dead pregnant cow elk that had been shot was found on the side of Rock Creek Road.  Although the meat had been removed there is no open season to hunt cow or bull elk in this area or during this time.  A short time after locating the cow a second elk was located in a nearby field.  The 4X5 bull had been shot and wounded and was still alive.  The OSP says for humanitarian reasons the bull had to be dispatched.  It is believed that both animals were shot between Saturday evening and Sunday morning by the same person or persons.  The OSP adds this case is especially sensitive in nature due to elk being taken in the area known as the Cody barn, a feeding station for wintering elk which are already struggling due to high snow fall this season.   Due to the proximity of homes in the area the Oregon State Police is requesting that if someone heard or has information on the unlawful taking of these elk to contact Senior Trooper Brent Ocheskey with The Dalles Area Command at 541-296-9646 or the Oregon State Police Turn in Poachers Tip line at 800-452-7888.  A $500 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the individuals involved in the taking and any information offered can remain anonymous.