Authorities in Australia face criticism after sacrificing hundreds of Koalas through helicopter assembly snipers last week, probably killing healthy mothers in the process and leaving Orphanes Joeys, according to the defenders of wildlife.
The sacrifice in Budj Bim National Park in Victoria, which was caused by forest fires, killed about 700 Koalas, including healthy with young Joeys under their care, animals of animal rights alleged.
Following mass murders, activists are asking the government to review their operation of the operation, which included shots in Koalas from helicopters.
The operation was used in early April as part of an effort to eliminate the koalas that were hungry, dehydrated or injuries as a result of forest fires that decimated more than 2,000 hectares of their homes.
The authorities insisted that euthanasia was necessary, but are not gaining any praise by their unconventional method.
The defenders of wildlife pointed out that it is difficult, if not impossible, to discern the health of a Koala from above in a helicopter, the healthy koalas were caught in the crossfire.
The helicopters flew approximately 30 meters, or almost 100 feet, on the ground.
“The use of aerial shots should be treated as a last resort. This is the first time that Koalas kills shooting from a helicopter in Australia. Air sacrifice or koalas is an Australian first and establishes an unpleasant oral precedent.” Press release.
The organization added that the area was blocked after the fires, rescuers have not been allowed inside to help orphaned babies.
“If the Koalas were fired from the trees, this means that many Joeys would be allowed to suffer and die. It is possible. It is cruel,” said Koala Alliance, an animal protection group, in a statement on Facebook.
In addition to the sacrifice, the defenders are also asking the Victorian government to end the harvest of healthy eucalyptus trees in nearby private plantations so that the koalas can use food and shelter trees safely.
Despite the harsh criticism, the Victorian government was standing next to the elimination and insisted that he was only acting on the advice of veterinary experts.
“After an examination of the circumstances, this approach was considered to really recognize that the Koalas were very distressed,” said Prime Minister Jacinta Allan.
In Queensland, New South Wales and the territory of the Australian capital, the Koalas are already listed as an endangered species. Many lose their habitats due to logging, planting expansion and forest fires.
