At least 84 kangaroos found dead in Gobarup and Hotham as the state’s conservation regulator launches an investigation

A conservation regulator has launched an investigation after more than 80 kangaroos were found with gunshot wounds and injuries consistent with being “rammed” by a vehicle.

At least 84 kangaroos were found dead in Gobarup and Hotham as the state’s conservation regulator launches an investigation. Picture: iStock.

An investigation has been launched after at least 84 kangaroos were found dead with gunshot wounds and other injuries consistent with being mowed down by a car.

Victoria’s conservation regulator is seeking public assistance after a local wildlife shelter operator found at least 65 dead adult and juvenile eastern grey kangaroos in private paddocks along the Tait-Hamilton Road in Gobarup on June 22.

The kangaroos were found with fatal gunshot wounds and other traumatic injuries “consistent with being rammed by a vehicle” across about 190 hectares of land when authorised officers inspected the site.

The kangaroos were found with fatal gunshot wounds and other traumatic injuries across about 190 hectares of land. Picture: Crime Stoppers Victoria.

Shotgun cartridges were also found in the area.

The injuries were so severe the wildlife carer reportedly had to euthanize three kangaroos they’d found alive, while two joeys were recovered and are now being cared for at a shelter.

The landowner is not considered to be a person of interest after officers spoke with them.

About 19 eastern grey kangaroos were also found dead near Hotham on June 23 after a member of the public alerted a wildlife carer.

The Gobarup landowner is not considered to be a person of interest. Picture: Crime Stoppers Victoria.

Wildlife, including kangaroos, are protected under the Wildlife Act 1975. Picture: Crime Stoppers Victoria.

The killings are believed to have taken place between 5pm June 21 and 12pm June 23.

It’s illegal to hunt, take, destroy, injure, or interfere with wildlife in Victoria without permission under the Wildlife Act 1975.

Maximum penalties for the offences include nearly $1000 and/or six months in prison per offence.

Fines of $98,795 or two years in prison could also apply under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986, with anyone with information being urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria.