Five kangaroos deliberately mowed down in a ‘cruel’ attack near Melbourne Airport

Wildlife authorities are investigating after five kangaroos and three joeys were killed near Melbourne Airport in a “blatantly cruel” attack.

Five kangaroos and three joeys were allegedly targeted. Picture: Wildlife Victoria

Five kangaroos and three joeys have been deliberately mowed down by a car near Melbourne Airport, with wildlife authorities investigating the “blatantly cruel” attack.

Animal rescuers were called to Sunbury Rd on Sunday morning after eight kangaroos – including three joeys – were allegedly struck by a car.

Four of the adult roos and two of the joeys were already dead, while a third baby needed to be euthanised. Another kangaroo sustained a broken arm and leg.

Wildlife Victoria suspects the mob of roos were deliberately killed by a callous driver, with visible tyre tracks leading to each kangaroo.

Wildlife Victoria CEO Lisa Palma said kangaroo populations are already under “extreme pressure” from increased urbanisation, habitat loss and the effects of climate change.

“To suspect that someone has intentionally mowed down an innocent family of kangaroos is simply devastating,” Ms Palma said.

The incident occurred near Melbourne Airport on Sunday. Picture: Wildlife Victoria

Tyre tracks can be seen leading up to each kangaroo. Picture: Wildlife Victoria

“Kangaroos are our national icon and like all our native species, they play a critical role in the health of our ecosystem. It is simply unacceptable to treat these incredibly important animals in such a blatantly cruel way.

“Kangaroos are sentient beings with complex family connections. To place yourself in this situation, to witness your family members intentionally harmed, it’s incomprehensible.”

Kangaroos are protected in Victoria under the Wildlife Act. It is illegal to injure, disturb or kill them without authorisation.

The maximum penalty for these offences can range from $3,846 to $9,615, or a six month jail term.

Further penalties under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 may also apply.

A Conservation Regulator spokeswoman confirmed it is investigating the “suspicious deaths of five kangaroos found near Melbourne Airport on Sunday 20 August”.

“We take all allegations of wildlife crime seriously and urge the community to help us investigate by reporting what they know to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000,” she said.

Victoria Police was contacted for comment.