Incident Overview
A helicopter engaged in a wildlife capture operation was involved in a collision with terrain after a net gun deployment went awry. The purpose of the flight was to capture a bull using a net gun. While the pilot was maneuvering at low altitude, the gunner fired the net at a bull. The net deployed and ensnared both the helicopter's skid and the bull. As the bull continued to run, it dragged the helicopter downward, resulting in the helicopter's collision with terrain.
Damage and Injuries
The helicopter sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, main rotor, and tailboom. The pilot and gunner sustained minor injuries.
Mechanical Condition
According to the pilot, there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the helicopter that would have precluded normal operation.