A photo of the pup taken in February. Photo: Supplied/ NZ Sea Lion Trust - Giverny Forbes
- Sea Lion pup found dead on 23 September
- Its mother, Jade, was found dead on 8 October, 100 metres from where the pup was found
- Reward leading to a conviction is $11,000
The New Zealand Sea Lion Trust (NZSLT) has increased its reward for information leading to a conviction, for the shooting of a pup and its mother in The Caitlins.
A pup was found dead on 23 September and and the Trust announced an initial reward on 28 September for an amount of $5,000.
Its mother, Jade, was also found dead on 8 October, about 100 metres from where the pup had been found.
NZSLT says with the support of The Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance (OPERA), the reward has been increased to $11,000.
Jade and her pup. Photo: Supplied / Department of Conservation
OPERA said the killings were heartbreaking.
"The senseless and tragic killings of Jade and her pup are heartbreaking reminders that humans often pose the most dangerous threat to New Zealand's vulnerable and endangered wildlife.
"This crime must not go without consequences. We are proud to stand with New Zealand Sea Lion Trust to encourage individuals to share any information that may assist in solving this case and ensuring these precious animals receive the justice they deserve," it said.
NZSLT said it was extremely grateful for its incredible supporters and donors at what has been a very sad time for its team.
"From the messages of encouragement NZSLT has received, it is clear how outraged the community feels about killing of these peaceful animals.
"NZSLT appreciates people getting behind our appeal to seek justice for Jade and her pup. They are helping to send a strong message that this abhorrent behaviour is not acceptable in New Zealand."
The trust said the deaths were a devastating blow to the recovery of sea lions on the Mainland, and have set the Catlins population back years.
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