Brush Turkey Killed by an Arrow in Lane Cove North

    By
    Jacky Barker
    -
    In the Cove has been contacted by a concerned resident who found a Brush Turkey in their Lane Cove North backyard that had been injured by an arrow.
    The resident called WIRES who responded immediately. Unfortunately they could not rescue the Brush Turkey as it moved higher up in a tree to roost.   WIRES was to return in the morning and will also report this matter to the RSCPA. The Turkey did not last the night.
    The resident is very upset about this act of animal cruelty and was very keen for ITC to publish our cover photo with the hope that someone might recognise the pink fletched arrow. We apologise if this image upsets anyone, however if publishing this picture can assist in finding the culprit; this will be a good outcome.

    From the comments on our Facebook page we know there are divided opinions on Brush Turkeys. You either love them or hate them.

    However, NO bird should ever be harmed.  It was also a dangerous act – what if the arrow had missed and hit someone? If you have any information on this attack please contact the RSPCA on 1300 CRUELTY (1300 278 358) or make a report online here https://www.rspca.org.au/report-cruelty

    This is not the first time brush turkeys have been targeted in Lane Cove. In December 2017, ITC received a distressing report from a Roving Reporter. They sent us a photo of a Brush Turkey that had also been shot with an arrow. The turkey was walking around with the arrow still attached.

    The Roving Reporter saw the bird at Hughes Park (the park on Burns Bay Road). The reporter contacted WIRES and made a report to the RSPCA.

    If you come across injured wildlife you can contact WIRES on 1300 094 737 or Sydney Wildlife on  9413 4300.  If you find an injured native animal:

    1. Take note of where you found it;
    2. Place the animal in a box or container, and leave in a dark and quiet place;
    3. Don’t offer any food or water, as mistakes can often be fatal;
    4. Call Sydney Wildlife, WIRES or drop the animal off at any vet. Vets will always take native animals and will get in touch with carers in the area very quickly if you’re strapped for time.

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