WA Seabird Rescue volunteer Craig Lester with the injured pelican.
Camera IconWA Seabird Rescue volunteer Craig Lester with the injured pelican. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Police investigate as second pelican is shot

Vanessa Schmitt, Mandurah Coastal TimesMandurah Coastal Times

Last week the Times reported on a pelican that had to be put down after it was shot with an arrow near Soldier’s Cove on May 20.

The following Sunday an adult pelican was shot through both wings with a hunting arrow near Samphire Cove. The bird is being rehabilitated.

The attacks are being investigated by the DEC, police and the RSPCA.

‘Using animals like pelicans for target practice or hunting is something that is not only illegal, it is inhumane and cruel,’ DEC wildlife officer Cameron Craigie said.

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‘The pelican shot on Sunday is extremely lucky to have survived as the arrow has not caused significant damage to any bones or vital organs.’

Pelicans are protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act 1950, and a maximum penalty of $4000 applies for injuring or killing pelicans. Animal cruelty offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2002 carry a maximum penalty of a $50,000 fine and five years jail.

Anyone with information about the attacks can contact DEC’s Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055, Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or RSPCA’s cruelty hotline 1300 278 3589.