Two wild ducks intentionally shot with metal arrows at Boreen Point were taken to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital suffering from life-threatening injuries and are now being treated under the expert care of the veterinary team.
Sunshine and Warrior were lovingly named by our veterinary team when they were brought to the Wildlife Hospital from Boreen Point with the arrows still lodged inside them.
Australia Zoo hospital supervisor and veterinarian Dr Ludo Valenza expressed her deepest concern upon assessing the injuries that were sustained by these patients.
“Upon closer examination, our specialised team had to safely and carefully remove the arrows from the ducks to avoid further trauma. One of the arrows had caused a severe wound inside the mouth of the duck whereas the other arrow had been shot right into the body of the duck. Both patients received intensive treatment and are currently being monitored around the clock,” said Dr Valenza.
“The arrows that were used to shoot these ducks were homemade, and this is absolutely devastating. All year long, we receive patients after being hit by a cars, attacked by domestic pets, orphaned or if they’re suffering from disease. It is then extremely saddening to see patients who were intentionally harmed in the wild, in their natural habitat, which is supposed to be their home.
“In the past, the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital has admitted a brush turkey that was spray painted, a flying fox shot with a BB gun pellet, a kangaroo shot with a crossbow, and many more patients who were wrongfully harmed. Our incredible team is working hard to help Sunshine and Warrior recover from their injuries.”
Since 2021, Wildlife Warriors has partnered with Crime Stoppers Queensland and Australia Zoo to put an end to wildlife crime. With significant rewards available for those providing information leading to the prosecution of those responsible for illegal acts against native wildlife, we hope to create a new layer of protection for Queensland’s defenceless animals.
Robert Irwin, world renowned conservationist said, “We are incredibly sad to see patients repeatedly admitted to the Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital after being intentionally harmed in the wild. Every animal receives the highest level of treatment and care to help them fully recover, and through our state-wide partnership with Crime Stoppers Queensland, we hope to continue our lifesaving efforts in protecting our precious wildlife.”
To report a crime against native wildlife, contact Crime Stoppers Queensland on 1800 333 000 anonymously, and help us end wildlife crime.
To find out more about the Wildlife Hospital and how you can help, visit www.wildlifewarriors.org.au.
