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Kangaroos shot with arrows in 'distressing' acts of cruelty

WARNING - DISTRESSING IMAGES: Police have increased patrols around a NSW park after kangaroos were found maimed by arrows piercing their bodies.

Two injured animals were spotted in bushland near Whalan Reserve at North St Marys on July 21 and 28 by concerned volunteers from animal rescue group WIRES.

The first was seen hopping through the forest with an arrow through its neck, while the other had been shot through the chest.

An aerial map of Whalan Park.
Police have stepped up patrols in the area around Whalan Park after attacks on three kangaroos. Source: Google Earth

Neither has been located and rescuers fear they may have succumbed to their injuries.

'Distressing': Volunteers saddened by third kangaroo victim

A third kangaroo was seen on July 29 distancing herself from the rest of the mob, indicating she was in distress.

Upon assessing her injuries, WIRES found the arrow which had pierced her neck had caused advanced infection and she could not be saved, however a small male joey she was carrying has been taken into care.

Two images of a kangaroo with an arrow through its neck.
A third kangaroo was found with an arrow piercing her neck. Source: WIRES

He has been named Finn and as of yesterday was said to be doing well in care, while a vet is carrying out an autopsy on the mother.

WIRES has released images of the injured animals in the hope that it will lead to those behind the attacks being found.

Spokesperson John Grant said it is always “distressing” when volunteers have to attend to animals subjected to “acts of cruelty”, including bow and arrow attacks.

“They rarely survive these unwarranted attacks as the wound quickly becomes infected and the animal dies a slow and painful death,” he said.

Police confirmed Nepean Area Command is continuing to investigate and has urged anyone with information to contact Penrith Police Station on (02) 4721 9444 or Crime Stoppers.

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