A suspected poacher has been arrested and charged in the deaths of a mama bear and her two cubs, whose bodies were found dumped on state land in Colorado.

Paul Stromberg, 52, was taken into custody on Saturday on suspicion of killing the animals, which Colorado Parks and Wildlife officers found dumped on state trust land southeast of Salida.

Officers said they found the bodies late last month after receiving anonymous tips about a poaching incident and reviewing social media posts.

It is unclear what led the Parks and Wildlife officers to suspect Stromberg in the deaths of the animals, but authorities claim they found evidence the bears were shot on his property on September 25 after conducting a search warrant, according to Fox News.

Stromberg was booked in Fremont County jail, but has since been released on a $10,000 bond.

He faces felony charges of destroying big game, and misdemeanor charges of hunting without a license, illegal wildlife possession and unlawful waste of game meat.

Under both federal and state law, black bears — and especially cubs — are a protected species.

If convicted, Stromberg could face fines and court fees of up to $13,000 and up to six months behind bars, CBS reports.

He is due back in court on October 11.