Police ask for help after finding koala mutilated at Warrnambool

A koala was found dead in Warrnambool, with both of its ears cut off.

 Police Sergeant Pat Day has described the koala mutilation as “disgusting”.

“Warrnambool police members are investigating what can only be described as a very troublesome and disgusting incident,” Sergeant Day said.

“We are asking for witnesses. 

“Anybody who has information or has seen anything in relation to the koala that had its ears unfortunately removed.

“It’s a troubling incident and it’s disturbing. We certainly want to get to the bottom of it.

“There is no reason for anybody to treat an animal in this way, whether it be alive or dead.” 

The remains were found by a SES worker on Hopkins Point Road on November 6.

It was found about two kilometres east of the Hopkins Bridge, about 8.30am.

Investigators have been told there has been a spate of similar mutilations involving kangaroos and wallabies, but this was the first incident involving a koala. 

Police said they believed the mutilation was recent, but were not able to establish if the koala was dead at the time.

Police are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

Contact Senior Constable Lee Stewart from Warrnambool police on 5560 1333 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at www.crimestoppers.com.au or call 1300 333 000.

The Standard, Warrnambool