A wild pacific black duck has survived after being shot through the head with an arrow near Mandurah, 72 kilometres south of Perth.
The duck was captured on July 31 by a WA Sea Bird volunteer and a Mandurah City ranger after it was found and reported by a local resident.
Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC) wildlife officer, Cameron Craigie, said the pacific black duck is protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act and the shooter could be fined $4000.
He has been tracking the animal’s progress at Coastal Veterinary Centre in Mandurah, and said it is likely to be released in the coming weeks.
“It’s looking good because the holes are sealing up and there is no sign of inflammation or swelling,” he said.
“We’re feeling positive that the wound will not lead to any infections.
“It is definitely one lucky duck.”
Craigie said though it is not common, attacks of this nature are not unheard of in the area.
“We have had quite a few instances down that way with people inflicting wounds with crossbows, arrows and gunshots,” he said.
“But it is certainly uncommon to see an animal which is so small and delicate survive something like this.”
Craigie has called on the public to come forward with information about the attack.
“It can be hard to build a case in these situations, but we have given the arrow to forensics and it will be examined by police and checked against their records if fingerprints are found,” he said.
“Often people are reluctant to provide information in cases where there is a weapon involved, as they can feel threatened by the perpetrators, but we’re hoping this won’t be the case.”
Craigie asked anyone with information to call the DEC on (08) 9474 9055.
SAM WORRAD