The Conservation Regulator is appealing for public assistance to help identify three young males in relation to an alleged attack on a little penguin at the St Kilda Esplanade at approximately 11.30pm on Friday 8 December 2023.

A member of the public reported seeing the three males allegedly kicking the penguin in the middle of tram tracks at stop 136, Alfred Square/The Esplanade.

The witness disturbed the group and relocated the penguin to the beach near St Kilda Pier before reporting details of the incident to local authorities, who alerted the Conservation Regulator.

The Regulator has released CCTV footage of three men they believe may be able to assist with their enquiries.

Anyone with information about this incident or the identity of these men is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or submit an online report at crimestoppersvic.com.au.

Little penguins, like all wildlife, are protected in Victoria under the Wildlife Act 1975 and it is illegal to injure, disturb, chase, or interfere with them. Maximum penalties range from $3,846 to $48,077 or 12 months in jail.