Pelican stomped on in sickening attack in Melbourne’s west

A pelican has been put down after it was beaten by heartless thugs in Melbourne’s west.

It’s been labelled a disturbing, senseless act of cruelty against a defenceless animal

Two male offenders were seen kicking and stomping on the pelican in Gladtone Street at St Albans.

The incident happened in broad daylight around 12.30pm last Tuesday.

Wildlife Officer Suriya Vij has told 3AW, although the pelican was showing some signs of life when rescuers arrived but its injuries, including broken wings and ribs, were too significant and it had to be put down.

The offenders are thought to be aged in their thirties, tall and lean.

One was dressed in black, the other black and red.

Anyone with information or CCTV footage is urged to come forward.