A KANGAROO has been shot through the head with a crossbow bolt and left to die in what the RSPCA has described as an “appalling” act.
A security guard at Morisset Hospital, where there is a large local kangaroo population, spotted the animal about 7am Sunday. The female kangaroo had been shot in the back of the head, but somehow survived the attack.
Police and animal welfare groups were called in, including Hunter Wildlife Rescue volunteer Ann Morgan.
“This poor girl had been shot with a crossbow arrow,” she said.
“It was through the back of the head and came out through the eye. I think it had only just happened, at that point she was still in very good condition.
Police managed to approach the injured kangaroo and photograph the injury, but the animal “took off” before she could be given further treatment, or euthanised.
“She joined the mob, the mob split and we just weren’t able to keep up with her,”Ms Morgan said.
“We were unable to find her yesterday, we went back down but then the storm came over and we really had to get out
“It’s very distressing. I don’t like our chances of finding her. It’s a huge area.”
This is not the first time a kangaroo has been targeted in a crossbow attack at the Morisset site.
In 2017 a kangaroo was shot with a hunting arrow through the abdomen and in 2015 a female kangaroo carrying a joey was shot through the chest in a similar incident.
“I’m appalled that situations like this still occur,” RSPCA NSW chief inspector Scott Meyers said.
“The kangaroos in this area are accustomed to being fed and have become so trusting of humans.
“I’m appalled that animals continue to suffer at the hands of irresponsible people.”
Police were able to retrieve a second crossbow bolt left in the hospital grounds and have opened an investigation with the RSPCA.
Anyone who sees the injured roo, or has an animal cruelty case to report should contact local police or the RSPCA cruelty line on 1300 278 3589.
The incident comes just weeks after Hunter New England Health announced it would be locking the gates to its Morisset site to protect both the kangaroo population and local staff and patients.
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