Kākā fatally shot in Auckland as DOC warns of spike in attacks on wildlife
Monday, 28 June 2021
A native bird has had to be euthanised after it was shot in the leg with a slug gun.
In a media release, the Department of Conservation said a male kākā, about 1 year old, was shot in Whangateau on Auckland’s northeast coast.
Now, it is calling for anyone with information to come forward.
The kākā was found on May 13 after a report was made by a member of the public.
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Scans of the bird determined a slug had been lodged in its left leg and its right leg was completely fractured, DOC said.
Attempts to save the bird were unsuccessful and it has been euthanised.
DOC said the shooting follows a spate of recent attacks on wildlife.
“Over the last three months there have been several incidents where protected animals have been shot.
“This includes the death of eight gannets in March at the Muriwai gannet colony, and the shooting of a tūi, north of Auckland. All incidents involved slug guns.”
Compliance officer Dylan Swain said staff are “appalled” by the shootings.
“All these incidents are completely unacceptable, and illegal under the Wildlife Act.
“We have a duty of care towards our protected species and this is a callous attack on our native taonga.”
Swain said kākā are an already threatened specie due to habitat loss and predators.
“We shouldn’t be adding inhumane and uncalled-for attacks to their list of threats.”
DOC said hunting or killing protected wildlife can come with penalties of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $100,000, or both.
Anyone with information about the shooting of the kākā is asked to call 0800 362 468.