The hen, found in the water gardens next to the Old Courthouse Museum in Batemans Bay, could not be caught by WIRES on Wednesday to receive veterinary care.

Museum volunteer Terry McDonough was alerted to the injured bird by concerned visitors about 10.30am. 

“A couple came in to the museum and told me there was a bird in the water garden with an arrow through it,” Mrs McDonough said. 

“I was horrified when I saw it and contacted WIRES straight away.”

WIRES volunteer Christine Moss arrived at the water gardens about noon with a towel, box and net at the ready to  catch the injured bird. 

“I have never seen anything like it,” she said. 

“It’s absolutely appalling that someone could leave a bird like this.”

Mrs Moss was knee-deep in mud trying to catch the hen after it ran off scared.

Unfortunately it could not be caught as it entered dense inaccessible bushland.

RSPCA NSW chief inspector David O’Shannessy said he was concerned for the animal’s welfare and hoped no vital organs were injured. 

“I’m alarmed that someone is using animals as target practice in a public place with little regard to the animal’s welfare,” he said. 

“If it’s not caught soon and given medical attention, it will most likely die.”

Mr O’Shannessy said there were heavy consequences involved if people were caught being cruel to animals.

“If the bird does not die but receives substantial injuries there is a maximum fine of $5500 and/or six months imprisonment,” he said. 

“If the bird was to die offenders can be fined up to $22,000 and two years imprisonment.” 

Anyone with any information about the incident should phone the RSPCA or local police.