Students devastated as school ducks 'tortured, mutilated and killed' in NSW

An investigation is under way after a school discovered its flock of pet ducks were tortured and killed in what police are describing as a "horrific act of cruelty".

The disturbing find was made at Murrumburrah High School in Harden, about 30km south of Young, in New South Wales this morning.

"Overnight, individuals gained unauthorised access to our school grounds and tortured, mutilated and killed our school ducks," the school said in a Facebook post.

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"This follows repeated incidents of damage to the school sprinkler system at night."

Police were told the Saxony breed ducks were secured in an enclosure on the grounds and were owned by the school.

It's believed the act happened sometime between 6pm yesterday and 8.30am today.

Acting Inspector Mark Lake said the incident was deeply disturbing.

"These animals have been subjected to an horrific act of cruelty," he said.

"It is clear that the ducks were well cared for by the facility and for someone to do this is beyond belief," he said.

The incident also garnered attention from member for Riverina and former Deputy PM, Michael McCormack, who shared the appeal.

"Those responsible for this heinous act should be found and held accountable for their actions," he wrote in an Instagram post.

Police and the school are appealing for anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

9news.com.au has contacted Murrumburrah High School.

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