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RSPCA hunts for animal abusers after kangaroos left mutilated, dying in WA

The hunt is on for those responsible for “harrowing” and bloody attacks on kangaroos in one state. WARNING: Graphic images

RSPCA at crisis point as pet surrenders rise

WARNING: Graphic images

The hunt is on for those responsible for the gruesome, bloody deaths of kangaroos in Western Australia, with suggestions some were even decapitated while still alive.

On Tuesday, the RSPCA WA issued a call for information after four kangaroos were found “harrowingly” injured in Bunbury, south of Perth.

In one of the four attacks – the latest on July 15 – a kangaroo’s legs appear to have been cut off while it was still alive.

RSPCA WA has issued a call for information following a spate of cruel and senseless violent attacks on kangaroos in Bunbury. Picture: Supplied via NCA NewsWire
RSPCA WA has issued a call for information following a spate of cruel and senseless violent attacks on kangaroos in Bunbury. Picture: Supplied via NCA NewsWire

RSPCA WA South West inspector Genna Haines said another mother and joey had their legs broken and were unable to hop.

“They had to be humanely euthanised,” Ms Haines said.

“A third incident involved decapitation.

‘These are cruel, crude and deliberate acts that would have caused immense suffering, and I am urging anyone with information to come forward and report it.”

One kangaroo’s legs were cut off while it was still alive. Picture: Supplied via NCA NewsWire
One kangaroo’s legs were cut off while it was still alive. Picture: Supplied via NCA NewsWire

The reported attacks occurred near the Manea College Bunbury and Edith Cowan University, as well as in the suburbs of Usher, College Grove and Carey Park.

Ms Haines said the attacks appeared to have been carried out by a small group of young men in utes or on motorcycles or mopeds.

RSPCA WA Inspector Genna Haines has urged anyone with information to come forward. Picture: Supplied via NCA NewsWire
RSPCA WA Inspector Genna Haines has urged anyone with information to come forward. Picture: Supplied via NCA NewsWire

“I suspect the perpetrators would have told someone something about these assaults and I know they will have family members, friends or colleagues who will be appalled by the details of these cases,” she said.

“Therefore, if anyone knows anything about these attacks, I urge them to contact the RSPCA WA cruelty hotline on 1300 278 350 or go to rspcawa.org.au to make a report.”

If convicted of animal cruelty, the maximum penalty is a $50,000 fine and five years imprisonment.

Western Australia Police, City of Bunbury rangers and the Department of Conservation, Biodiversity and Attractions are assisting the RSPCA with investigations.

Originally published as RSPCA hunts for animal abusers after kangaroos left mutilated, dying in WA

Original URL: https://www.themercury.com.au/technology/science/rspca-hunts-for-animal-abusers-after-kangaroos-left-mutilated-dying-in-wa/news-story/9a9999328d5c80ddde20d83b09aff61e