Stern warning after kangaroo was shot with arrow
WARNING – DISTRESSING CONTENT: An injured kangaroo which was carrying a joey in its pouch has been put down after it was shot by an arrow.
The disturbing discovery was made on Monday in the Canberra suburb of Hackett, after the ACT Parks and Conservation Service (PCS) received numerous reports from members of the public about a wounded marsupial.
When a PCS ranger arrived they found the female, believed to be only a few years old, with an arrow in its leg.
Veterinary advice was sought and to prevent the animal from suffering further it was humanely euthanised.
Her joey was also humanely euthanised as it was too young to be cared for.
“This is particularly distressing for rangers who have to respond to these incidents and to the community who hear and see these sorts of incidents, ” the ACT Parks and Conservation Service spokesperson said in a statement.
The spokesperson said animal cruelty was not tolerated by the government or the community.
“Aggravated cruelty attracts maximum penalties of 2 years imprisonment and/or $75,000,” the spokesperson said.
“There are also offences for killing, injuring or endangering native animals that attract strong penalties.”
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The spokesperson explained these were serious offences, and the PCS relies on public information to help track down those responsible.
“Unfortunately PCS receives reports of kangaroos and other native animals shot by arrows, including an emu at the Lower Cotter Catchment about 12 months ago,” the spokesperson said.
In May, a four-year-old eastern grey kangaroo found was discovered with an arrow through her back in Victoria.
Fortunately a delicate operation was able to be performed and she was expected to make a full recovery.
She also had a young joey in her pouch.
Anyone with information about the injured animal in Hackett is urged to contact Crime Stoppers 1800 333 000 or Access Canberra 132 281.
