Vermont officials say they believe they've found the remains of a beloved captive moose, but the carcass is too decomposed to be tested for disease.

Pete the Moose, who became a cause celebre over the state's wildlife regulation, died in September during tranquilization for hoof trimming. Until a week ago, state officials insisted he was alive. The owner of the hunting park where Pete lived has taken responsibility for covering up Pete's death.

Wildlife officials had been offering different answers where Pete's remains were.

Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Patrick Berry said Thursday that the park owner showed a warden the moose remains. Berry says he can't guarantee it was Pete but the animal's hooves had been trimmed.

Pete's life in captivity helped prompt the state to pass new wildlife laws.