WCO's do look into Anonymous tips, but its difficult to find what is needed for probable cause. I do not reveal my sources (and very seldom are they needed for trial) but it helps immensely if the investigating officer has a first count witness to speak to.
Most tips come in with little to no evidence and most is a "I heard from so and so that so and so at the butcher shop said this other guy killed a lot of bucks this year." Thats very little to go on. And if we just start asking around, before you know it, the suspect changes his routine because he knows we're looking for him.
I actually had one report suggesting I just barge in a guys house and go check his freezer...yep I'll just ignore that little thing called the Constitution which mandates that police have PC before a search warrant is issued.
If someone has first hand information, the best advice is to ask to speak to an officer and just explain that youd like to keep your name out of it if possible. Sometimes its not possible.
And yes I understand having to live near poachers, I do too, but in the end, I dont care what their opinion of me is, and I dont frighten easily. Basically if theyre a wildlife violator, I dont care if they dont like me, any respect I may of had for them went with their first poaching incident.
Please dont take this as me being on a high horse or accusing anyone of not stepping up, not my intention. Just trying to explain what is usually needed for a good investigation and prosecution.