Merbein man fined for “callous” magpie cruelty

A 57-year-old man from the State’s northwest has been sentenced to a good behaviour bond and ordered to pay $2,394 after he pleaded guilty to illegally killing four and injuring two magpies at his property in June 2021.

The man fronted Mildura Magistrates’ Court yesterday admitting to 10 offences of wounding and inflicting aggravated cruelty on an animal under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.

Presiding Magistrate Southey sentenced the man to a two-year good behaviour bond and a $2,000 fine. His Honour also ordered him to pay $394 to cover the Department’s costs.

Conservation Regulator Authorised Officers initiated an investigation following reports of native birds being shot in the Merbein area. Officers found four dead magpies, and two seriously injured magpies, which had to be later euthanised by a qualified veterinarian.

In sentencing, Magistrate Southey called the man’s actions “callous”, noting the “beautiful” and “quintessential” nature of the Australian magpie (Gymnorhina tibicen).

In Victoria, it is illegal to disturb or destroy wildlife without an authorisation.

The Conservation Regulator encourages anyone with information about wildlife crime to report it to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000. Callers can remain anonymous.

Magpies are an iconic native bird and they are protected in Victoria. There is no excuse for unlawfully killing or injuring them.

The Conservation Regulator takes wildlife crime extremely seriously and this court result should act as a warning that we will pursue penalties for offenders.