Police hunting mystery archer after brush turkey hit by arrow on Sydney's North Shore
Updated . First published at
Warning: This story contains images some readers may find distressing.
Police are hunting a mystery archer who shot a brush turkey on Sydney's North Shore, while another native bird was spotted with a similar injury from an arrow on the NSW Central Coast.
A female jogger discovered the wounded Australian turkey in bushland opposite Cremorne Point Ferry Wharf about 5pm on April 24.
The turkey was taken to Taronga Zoo's Wildlife Hospital by WIRES (Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service) for treatment, but needed to be euthanised due to the extent of its injuries.
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The turkey was taken to Taronga Zoo's Wildlife Hospital by WIRES, but needed to be euthanised. Instagram/@mosmancollective/WIRES
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According to WIRES, multiple other brush turkeys have been injured by an archery arrow over the past several years.
Locals in East Gosford on the NSW Central Coast contacted the rescue service after spotting a different brush turkey walking around with an arrow embedded in its feathers.
One resident told nine.com.au they had seen the bird several times since February.
"It's so sad seeing it walking around and we have no idea how it's still alive," they said.
A spokesperson for WIRES said the team is still trying to rescue this injured bird.
A female jogger discovered the wounded Australian turkey in bushland opposite Cremorne Point Ferry Wharf in late April. Instagram/@mosmancollective/WIRES
Brush turkeys are a protected species in Australia.
It is an offence under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act to harm a native animal with a weapon.
"Injuries from bow and arrow cause severe pain and prolonged death and suffering," WIRES chief executive Leanne Taylor said.
"If still mobile, a traumatised animal can be very difficult to contain and sadly they mostly require euthanasia due to injuries and infections.
"For more than 40 years, WIRES has remained dedicated to supporting our volunteers and their invaluable work rescuing and protecting Australian native wildlife and we will continue to uphold our commitment to animal welfare and care."
One resident told Nine.com.au they had seen the bird on the Central Coast several times since February. Supplied
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An investigation into the bird attack in Cremorne Point is now under way.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers On 1800 333 000.
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