The RSPCA says a goose was left impaled by a crossbow arrow in a cowardly act of cruelty.

It says rescue officers found the bird at Serafino winery at McLaren Vale, just south of Adelaide, on Tuesday with a 90-centimetre arrow through its chest.

The goose was taken to a veterinarian but had to be put down because of the severity of its injury.

The RSPCA says the attack was savage and heartless and it is keen to hear from anyone with information.

A conviction could bring a jail term of up to four years or a $50,000 fine.