Ten ducks, riddled with shotgun pellets, were found stuffed in plastic bags and dumped near train tracks at Melton in what is being described as a “vile” act of animal cruelty.
The adult Pacific black ducks were likely lured to their deaths. Photos of the ducks, seen by Star Weekly, show undigested bird seed in their crop.
Coalition Against Duck Shooting campaign director Laurie Levy said shooters have over the years “bragged” about befriending ducks and feeding them before shooting them during the duck hunting season.
But he said it’s the first time the group has evidence that ducks were likely coaxed with food before being killed.
“I think that’s the most cowardly act they can undertake,” Mr Levy said. “Those birds didn’t stand a chance – to lure birds in … where they think they’re dealing with human friends, and then to pull out a shotgun … I think, is one of the lowest acts I’ve seen in 31 years.”
Melton resident Nathan Miles said the ducks were found by railway workers last Tuesday. He’s called on authorities to “fully investigate” the incident and prosecute the offenders.
“It’s disgusting, vile and cruel. It appears someone has fed these native water birds, gained their trust and then massacred and dumped their bodies,” Mr Miles said.
Star Weekly understands the Game Management Authority is investigating.
Tom Whitty, a spokesman for state agriculture minister Jaala Pulford, said authorities were out in full force during the duck hunting season (which ends June 12) to ensure people complied with hunting regulations and laws.
“We respect the fact that many people have deeply held and divergent views about duck hunting,” Mr Whitty said.
“However, the government recognises that hunting is a legitimate recreational activity.
“Hunting must remain safe, responsible, and sustainable. That’s why extensive surveys of duck numbers and other environmental factors are undertaken before and throughout each season to inform decisions.”
Victorian Greens leader Greg Barber said more than 270,000 birds were killed during the 2016 hunting season, with a majority of Victorians wanting duck shooting banned.
“We see this type of cruelty every year,” Mr Barber said. “If voters want to see this cruelty stopped, they will need to use their vote at the next state election because Labor and Liberal are determined to keep it going.”
RSPCA Victoria north-west metro team leader Tiffany Page said the organisation had not received any community reports about ducks being shot in Melton this month. But she urged anyone concerned about an animal’s welfare to contact 9224 2222.
The Game Management Authority was contacted for comment.
