A baby seal has been euthanised after it was found on a beach with its spine and ribs broken, surrounded by human and dog footprints.
A local resident spotted the juvenile sub-Antarctic fur seal resting on Bunga Beach, near eastern Victoria's Lakes Entrance, on September 17 and returned that evening to find it badly injured.
"Around 6pm, the witness returned to the beach to find the seal now with facial wounds and serious back injuries, and reportedly surrounded by human and dog footprints," Crime Stoppers said in a statement.
"They also stated seeing a large stick next to the animal that wasn't previously there."
The seal's spine had been fractured and several of its ribs broken, a veterinarian's assessment revealed.
The animal had to be put down as a result of its injuries.
The Conservation Regulator is investigating the incident and has appealed for people with information to contact Crime Stoppers.
Melbourne Zoo will conduct a necropsy to better understand what led to the seal's death.
All wildlife, including seals, are protected under Victorian law, and it is illegal to harm, disturb, touch, or go within 30 metres of one on land.
Offenders can face fines of more than $49,000 or 12 months in prison if found guilty of animal cruelty and pet owners can face fines of almost $5000 if their pet attacks, injures or chases wildlife.
