Appeal For Witnesses To Turtle Cruelty

[Dreamtime]

THE RSPCA is appealing for witnesses to the butchery of a large sea turtle north of Brisbane.

Brisbane Times today reported the animal protection agency received a complaint last weekend that the animal was dragged off the beach at Deception Bay and killed with the intent of selling its shell on eBay.

The meat from the turtle was allegedly fed to dogs, the report said.

RSPCA inspector Simon Eager said investigations by the EPA and wildlife rangers were stalled by a lack of witnesses.

"We certainly would be interested in anyone coming forward who is willing to give us a statement of any further information about it,'' Mr Eager told the Brisbane Times online.

"Basically people are afraid to come forward to talk to us for fear of retribution.''

Mr Eager said the RSPCA did not believe the turtle was caught by indigenous people for hunting purposes.

Sea turtles are common at Deception Bay at this time of year as they come ashore to nest.

Anyone with information is urged to phone the RSPCA animal cruelty hotline on 1300 852 188.