Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents cited two subjects for alleged migratory game bird violations in Plaquemines Parish on Dec. 29.

Agents cited Cullen Howes, 23, of Larose, and Drake Winkler, 22, of Cut Off, for taking over the limit of coots. Howes was also cited for wanton waste of migratory game birds and intentional concealment of wildlife.

Agents were on patrol when they made contact with Howes in his vessel in possession of 32 coots. During the stop, agents noticed 12 coots lying in the surrounding marsh about 15 feet from Howes’ vessel.

During questioning, Howes told agents that he and Winkler were hunting together earlier that morning. Howes admitted to throwing 12 coots out of his vessel when he noticed the agents. Agents located Winkler nearby in a hunting blind.

The daily bag limit for coots is 15 per person. Agents seized the 14 coots over the limit and donated them to a local charity.

Intentional concealment of wildlife, taking over the limit of coots and wanton waste of migratory game birds brings a $900 to $950 fine and up to 120 days in jail for each offense.

The subjects may also face civil restitution totaling $205 for the value of the illegally possessed coots.

Agents participating in the case are Corporal Shea Schexnaydre and Agent Dawson Gildig.