RSPCA WA is calling for the public's help in an investigation into alleged cruelty to wildlife in the City of Stirling.
A cruelty report was lodged with RSPCA WA on 27 August claiming minors were intentionally hooking a swan on their fishing line while fishing at Roselea Reserve and Merv Lake Park in Stirling.
The swan was taken to Perth Wildlife Hospital where the hook was removed – it was discovered the same swan had been hooked only 13 days prior.
Over the weekend, two ducks who had sustained hook injuries were rescued by WA Seabird Rescue. They underwent surgery at Perth Wildlife Hospital yesterday afternoon – one had a hook stuck in its oesophagus.
Since November 2024, there have been seven documented incidences of wildlife sustaining hook injuries at Roselea Reserve and Merv Lake Park. It's not known whether some were accidental however, based on evidence already gathered, RSPCA WA is confident a portion were deliberate.
RSPCA WA's investigation is continuing with assistance from WA Police.
Inspectors have been provided with CCTV and phone footage as part of their investigation however they are now seeking information from the public to help identify some of the minors who appear in it.
Inspector Taylia Noonan said there were concerns that more wildlife could be injured now that school holidays have started.
"I understand there has been some social media commentary about whether fishing should be allowed in the area however, that is not a matter for RSPCA WA," she said.
"Our focus is ensuring the welfare of the birds on the lake. With the weather fining up and kids with more time on their hands over the next couple of weeks, I am urging parents and guardians of young people who fish in these lakes to have a conversation about their obligation to fish responsibly and appropriately," she said.
"The injured wildlife will have experienced pain and fear, not just from being hooked but through their rescue, treatment and recovery as well.
"Animals are sentient beings and deserve to be treated with respect – it is never ok to deliberately cause them harm."
Under the Animal Welfare Act 2002, the maximum penalty for a charge of animal cruelty is a $50,000 fine and five years in prison.
Anyone with information about the birds being hooked, or with information on the identity of any minors who may be involved, is urged to contact the RSPCA WA Cruelty Hotline on 1300 278 358, or via rspcawa.org.au/report-cruelty and quote job number 211997.
