Victoria Wildlife Officials Search for Three Men Who Attacked St. Kilda Penguins

Three men are wanted by Victoria wildlife officials after witnesses saw them attacking one of St. Kilda’s famous little penguins. The incident occurred on December 8th. To date, the penguin’s assailants still have not been apprehended. The lack of information has prompted officials to ask the public for additional information.

The three attackers were seen kicking a little penguin who was in the middle of Melbourne’s tram tracks. Recently, CCTV footage of the event was released. Now, officials are asking anyone with information about the attackers to come forward.

The attack on the little penguin took place in the southeast of Melbourne, in the neighborhood of St. Kilda. The men were seen kicking the penguin near tram stop 136, Alfred Square/The Esplanade at around 11:30 pm.

Luckily, a kind bystander witnessed the event and stepped in to save the defenseless little penguin. After stopping the penguin’s attackers, they moved the penguin from the tram stop to a beach near the St. Kilda pier. Then, they contacted authorities.

Melbourne’s famous little penguin colony is located at the pier breakwater. The penguins are much beloved by the local community. Additionally, they are a popular tourist attraction. Many visitors to Melbourne flock to see the St. Kilda little penguin colony. 

It is unclear why the three men attacked the little penguin. However, this is not the first time such an incident has occurred. Sadly, in 2021 a little penguin was killed by five male attackers in the same area. 

Like other native Australian wildlife, little penguins are protected in Victoria by the 1975 Wildlife Act. Harassing, chasing, injuring, disturbing, or interfering with the birds is punishable by law. Violators may face fines or up to a year in jail.

Victoria authorities are asking anyone with information about the attack to contact them at 1800 333 000 or submit a report to crimestoppersvic.com.au. 

Sign this petition to Help Save the Penguins!

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• Urgent Measures Needed to Prevent Extinction of African Penguins
• New Study Uncovers Impressive 60 Million-Year Evolution of Penguins 

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