Black Hawk Helicopter Elk Antlers Montana Ranch Trespass
A Montana rancher’s report of a U.S. Black Hawk helicopter being used to collect shed elk antlers sparked an examination in May 2025, raising questions about the use of military resources for private gain.
Antler Hunt Incident
In May 2025, linda McMullen, a Montana rancher, received a call from a neighbor reporting a U.S. Army helicopter landing on her property to collect shed elk antlers.
McMullen recounted the conversation, stating, “He said, ’Linda, there’s a green Army helicopter landed on your place, picking up elk antlers.’ I said, ‘Are you joking?’ He said, ‘I’m looking at them with binoculars.'” The New York Times reported last year.
The local sheriff, at the time, indicated he was investigating the incident, noting it was “the first helicopter I’ve heard of” being used for shed antler collection.
Montana National Guard Response
J. Peter Hronek,the Adjutant General for the Montana National Guard,issued a
statement on Facebook regarding the unauthorized use of military aircraft.
The statement confirmed an investigation into the matter, but as of January 9, 2026, the Montana National guard has not released the results of its investigation.Montana Department of military Affairs remains the best source for updates.
Shed Antler Collection
Shed antler collection is a popular activity in Montana, where elk populations are abundant. Antlers, which are naturally shed each year, can be sold for a few hundred dollars, depending on size and quality.
The Crazy Mountains, a range in Montana, are a known area for elk and, consequently, shed antler hunting.