Rabih Habib: Accused Walsh Bay wharf seabird killer in court

A teenager allegedly brutally killed a seabird in a shocking attack captured on video.

An accused teenage seabird killer – arrested after sickening footage surfaced on social media – has been pictured for the first time.

Rabih Habib, 18, of Revesby did not enter a plea to the single charge of recklessly beat and kill an animal when he appeared before Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday.

The teenager, if found guilty, faces a maximum penalty of five years.

Habib leaves court on Wednesday. Picture: Damian Shaw

Footage of the alleged attack.

The video showed males circle the cormorant before allegedly kicking and dragging the bird on a fishing line as it flapped its wings and flailed. A male also allegedly stomped on the bird’s head a number of times.

The alleged attack took place on a wharf at Walsh Bay, Millers Point earlier this month.

Habib’s lawyer told the court negotiations were taking place with police to adjust the alleged facts and asked for an adjournment, which was granted.

The matter will return to court in May.