A masked plover that was found by WIRES shot with an arrow has died from internal injuries.

The plover was reported to WIRES on 17 August by a member of the public who saw the injured bird on the roadside in Saratoga on the Central Coast.

WIRES managed to find and contain the plover the following day still with the arrow protruding through its chest (see images below)

The arrow was removed by a WIRES affiliated vet however due to the extensive injuries the plover died the next day.

WIRES Central Coast Branch Chair, Bill Fortier said the shooting was clearly a deliberate act of cruelty.

“This poor bird would have suffered severe pain and we are appalled that someone would even think of using an animal as a target,” said Fortier.

The shooting of native animals is not only unacceptable it also illegal under the ‘Prevention of Cruelty to animals act 1979’ and the ‘National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974.’

Mr. Fortier added that the incident has been reported to the relevant authorities and currently under investigation. Anyone with information can contact the RSPCA on (02) 9770 7555.

If you find an injured, orphaned or displaced animal please call WIRES immediately on 1300 094 737.

WIRES relies almost entirely on donations to continue its work rescuing, rehabilitating and releasing native Australian wildlife and tax deductible donations (over $2) can be made at wires.org.au or on (02) 8977 3396.