The 18-year-old and 15-year-old males allegedly captured and killed the penguins, a protected species, at Sulphur Creek on the north-west coast

This article is more than 4 years old

This article is more than 4 years old

Two teens will be charged with trapping and slaughtering nine penguins on Tasmania’s coast.

The 18-year-old and 15-year-old males allegedly captured and killed the penguins, a protected species, at Sulphur Creek on the state’s north-west coast last month.

Police would not elaborate on how the penguins were killed but said charges would be laid under the Animal Welfare Act.

Sulphur Creek Coastcare group president Frank Wilson said the penguins might have been shot with a bow and arrow.

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“My wife did find some arrows along the side of the road but I haven’t heard back from Parks and Wildlife,” he said.

There were a number of witnesses to the slaughter, including a nearby camper who heard a commotion in the penguin colony.

“A guy camping near the boat ramp witnessed it and there was evidence given by a number of residents in that area,” Wilson said.