Australian authorities have launched an investigation into the illegal killing of at least 65 kangaroos, which were found shot or apparently rammed by a vehicle. The distressing discovery was made by a local wildlife shelter in rural paddocks located 75 miles north of Melbourne on June 22. The shelter promptly alerted Victorian wildlife officials, leading to the initiation of a probe.

The state's Conservation Regulator revealed that while three kangaroos were found alive, they had to be euthanized due to the severity of their injuries. Additionally, two kangaroo joeys were rescued and are currently being cared for at a wildlife shelter.

Preliminary findings suggest that the marsupials suffered fatal gunshot wounds and traumatic injuries consistent with a vehicle collision. The presence of used shotgun cartridges in the area further supports this speculation.

Tania Begg, a local wildlife rescuer, was one of the first to witness the gruesome scene. Begg described it as "horrific" with kangaroos exhibiting broken legs and gunshot wounds, an experience she found deeply shocking. As she continued her search, she discovered more dead kangaroos in various locations, including roadsides and paddocks.

Kangaroos are a protected species in Australia; however, the most common species are not considered endangered. Therefore, they can be legally hunted and killed, with proper government permission, in most jurisdictions. The widespread population of kangaroos, estimated between 30 million and 60 million nationally, requires occasional culling to maintain balance. Kangaroos follow a "boom and bust" population cycle, resulting in rapid fluctuation in numbers, particularly during times of plentiful food availability after a good wet season.

In addition to culling, an industry exists in Australia that harvests kangaroo carcasses for meat, pet food, and leather. This industry alone is responsible for shooting around five million kangaroos annually. However, the recent incident involving the illegal killing of numerous kangaroos goes against the guidelines and regulations put in place.

Australian authorities are determined to find those responsible for the unjustified killing of these kangaroos. Their investigation aims to highlight the seriousness of such offenses and uphold the legal framework surrounding the protection and conservation of wildlife in the country.