Two pelicans on the New South Wales central coast had their beaks smashed but were left alive in an apparent act of animal cruelty, the RSPCA says.
NSW police are investigating the attacks on the protected native birds, which were found at The Entrance and taken to a vet but had to be euthanised.
“While we are not sure if this has been caused by a malicious attack or unfortunate natural circumstances at this point, it does look very suspicious,” RSPCA inspector Graeme Dymond said. “It’s sickening to see gruesome injuries like these inflicted on such beautiful birds.”
Penalties for animal cruelty offences in NSW can carry a prison term of up to five years.
The attack on the pelicans follows the deaths of hundreds of the birds in the region since 2014, which the NSW Environmental Protection Authority says is due to stormwater toxins and blue-green algae.
The EPA launched an investigation after more than 100 sick and dying pelicans from the region were sent to Taronga wildlife hospital for treatment.
The RSPCA is urging anyone with information to contact the organisation on 1300 178 358 or call police.
