Justice for Kevin: Man who tore kookaburra's head off could face prosecution
A man who tore the head off a kookaburra in a Perth pub in front of families with young children may still face prosecution.
The man, allegedly in his 40s, was at the Parkerville Tavern, when the beloved but chip stealing resident kookaburra known as Kevin stole some chips off his plate.
The man allegedly grabbed the kookaburra, pulled the bird's head off and threw it under the table.
Kevin was beloved by locals who attended the pub.
An RSPCA spokeswoman told AAP that the organisation had not given up on pursuing the man but said that the Animal Welfare Act was unclear.
Agriculture and Food Minister Alannah MacTiernan has promised to search legal avenues surrounding native wildlife protection.
“It is pretty disgusting I think everyone is rightly appalled. We are now checking with the department whether or not this can be characterised as an act of animal cruelty,” she said on Monday to 10daily.
“I think everyone in this community would say there should be some penalty for behaving in this way. And that’s what we are very determined that we will sort this out.”
Environment Minister Stephen Dawson has said that a review of the Animal Welfare Act is underway.
“If the allegations are true, this is a despicable act. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) and WA Police are conducting a joint investigation into the incident,” he said.
“The State Government currently has a review of the Animal Welfare Act underway, with an independent panel due to provide advice to the Agriculture Minister next year.
“Cases like this will be examined as part of the review.”