The RCMP says the cows were killed, skinned and their meat taken.
The bodies were found behind a cemetery in Swalwell Settlement, about 100 miles northeast of Calgary.
The researchers did not know who the animals belonged to, but estimated that they would be worth about $ 5,000.
Anyone with information about the incident should call the Airdrie RCMP at 403-945-7200 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.
