Poisonous Ornamental Plant Blamed for Elk Deaths Near Boise

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Officials say seven elk died in the Boise foothills after eating a poisonous shrub that's used as landscaping for homes.

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game says the elk had been dead about five days before being found on Tuesday in the area near Table Rock Road and Wild Horse Lane. Conservation officer Ben Cadwallader tells the Idaho Statesman that partially digested food in the elk turned out to be Japanese yew, a poisonous ornamental plant.

Fish and Game is asking homeowners with Japanese yew on their property to remove it. Officials say about half a cup of the plant can kill an adult elk.