The Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) is calling for public assistance after the discovery of a brush tailed possum that had been shot with an arrow at Margate.

Members of the public discovered the possum and reported it to DPIPWE on Friday 6^th July 2012. Wildlife officers were able to retrieve the possum, with the arrow still attached, from a tree hollow and take to it a veterinary clinic for treatment.

DPIPWE Resource Management and Conservation General Manager Alistair Scott said wildlife officers are investigating the incident.

"Unfortunately the possum and its joey did not survive the attack and our Department is concerned at what appears to be a random act of cruelty."

"We are appealing for members of the public who may have any information related to the incident to come forward as this is the second incident of its type at the same location".

"Several years ago the public were able to provide vital information regarding a similar attack. From the information provided the offender was later identified, interviewed and prosecuted and we are hoping the public may be able to assist again.

Mr Scott said penalties in place for such an attack under the Wildlife (General) Regulations 2010 carry a maximum penalty of $13,000.

Mr Scott said the person could also face charges under the Animal Welfare Act 1993 which carries a maximum penalty of $13,000 or a term of imprisonment not exceeding 12 months or both.

Mr Scott said Wildlife Officers would also be liaising with Tasmania Police over the matter. Anyone with information can contact DPIPWE Ranger (Wildlife Operations) Glenn Atkinson on 0418 127 187