The Conservation Regulator is investigating a suspected act of wildlife cruelty after a kangaroo was found trapped and hanging from a transmission line in Melbourne’s north-east.

The kangaroo was discovered on Wednesday, 8 July on development land near Findon Road in South Morang, suspended by its hind legs from a makeshift rope snare attached to transmission-line infrastructure.

Wildlife rescuers freed the kangaroo, but despite receiving treatment for leg injuries and suspected nerve damage, it died the following day.

The setting and use of traps and snares that may injure wildlife is illegal and can cause unnecessary suffering, severe pain, long-term injuries and death.

All wildlife in Victoria is protected. It is illegal to harm wildlife under the Wildlife Act 1975 and Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.

An offence of aggravated cruelty under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986 carries a maximum penalty of up to $104,550 and two years imprisonment.