Mar 18 • 20:26 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

Kangaroos and joey killed in 'deliberate' four-wheel drive hit-and-run

Seven kangaroos, including a joey, have been killed in a hit-and-run incident in Lake Macquarie, prompting an investigation by NSW Police.

In Lake Macquarie, New South Wales, seven eastern grey kangaroos have met a tragic fate in what is being described by local authorities as a 'deliberate' hit-and-run incident. The gruesome discovery has led to an investigation by the NSW Police, who are seeking assistance from the public. Notably, a joey, which weighed only 260 grams and was found alive after the attack, unfortunately succumbed to its injuries a short time later. This incident has sparked outrage and concern within the community and among wildlife conservationists.

Animal rescuers discovered the kangaroos with tire tracks visible as they mounted the curb, suggesting intentional harm rather than an accident. The first reports came in when residents found four kangaroos dead near Wyee Point Reserve, with another three being located nearby shortly after. Julie Hunter, an expert in macropod species, expressed her horror at the event, labeling it one of the most disgusting acts she had encountered in her experience with wildlife rescue.

The community's reaction to the deaths has been one of anger and grief. Lasting implications of such acts could lead to changes in wildlife protection laws and more rigorous enforcement against wildlife crimes. The NSW Police's appeal for public assistance indicates the seriousness of the investigation and the community's potential role in bringing those responsible to justice. Protecting native wildlife is crucial, and such incidents highlight the ongoing issues faced by kangaroos and other indigenous species in their natural habitats.

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