Authorities in Western Australia have been forced to euthanase a kangaroo after it was found with two arrows lodged in its body on a busy Margaret River street.
Warning: this story contains graphic images.
A member of the public found the distressed male kangaroo on Wise Road early Tuesday morning and alerted authorities.
It is not yet know if the arrows were fired from a traditional bow or crossbow-type weapon.
RSPCA inspector Genna Haines said the kangaroo was well-known to local residents who would have been distressed by the find.
"Somebody has intentionally targeted and shot this kangaroo in a really cruel way," Ms Haines said.
"It has been suffering and trying to move around for some time with arrows in it. By the time it was found, its condition had deteriorated so it was euthanased."
Roo 'quite friendly'
Ms Haines said the kangaroo was frequently sighted on Wise Road, a short walk from Margaret River's main street.
"It had been humanised at some point," Ms Haines said.
"It was quite friendly, but whether it has been rehabilitated or rescued is not yet known.
"Given its size and the fact it is a male, I imagine it's not somebody's pet though."
Ms Haines said, if found, the offender could face fines of up to $50,000 or five years' prison under the Animal Welfare Act.
Margaret River Police officer in charge Simone Taplin said police would support authorities with the investigation if required, and the attack went against community expectations.
