MORE cartridges have been found at the Western Wetlands in Rockbank since allegations that they were used last month to shoot protected wildlife.
As reported in the Weekly, animal rescuers were outraged when a protected bird was shot and killed at a wetland area close to a caravan park and roads.
Western Suburbs Animal Rescue Service spokesman Nathan Miles said three cartridges were found at the site and handed over to Melton police.
Constable Justin Ludeman said the ammunition had been destroyed after being handed in.
“We have increased patrols around the area, especially during hot spots for shooting, such as twilight and on weekends for possible illegal shooting of wildlife,” Constable Ludeman said.
Mr Miles initially visited the wetlands and found a live shotgun shell with a dead black stilt nearby. He said the group entered the Western Wetlands in Rockbank after receiving calls about shooting.
A Department of Primary Industries spokesman said that under the Wildlife Act, the maximum penalty for taking protected wildlife was about $6000 and/or six months jail.
Mr Miles last month called for the owners of the land, where the Western Wetlands is located inside the urban growth boundary for Rockbank North, to provide signs to deter shooters. The land owned by both Jayaland Corporation Pty Ltd and Mirvac Group last week had signs installed on it, stating: “Shooting Strictly Prohibited” and “Private Property No Trespassing”.
