Australia emu video investigated for ‘horrific cruelty’

Animal welfare authorities in Australia are investigating a video which appears to show a motorist deliberately running over several emus.

The footage has drawn widespread anger after being shared online. Authorities are treating the footage as authentic.

In the video, the male driver is heard cheering as he strikes the birds on a dirt road with his car.

Authorities have appealed for information, describing it as apparent evidence of “horrific cruelty”.

“[We] unequivocally condemn this type of behavior, as it clearly shows a disregard for the lives of vulnerable native animals,” the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) said in a statement.

The unidentified motorist’s face can be seen in the 41-second video. His voice is also heard.

“This is great – I’ve got that one too, and that one,” he says.

The RSPCA has not yet determined where or when the incident took place. On Friday, they said they were examining a lead in South Australia.

Under South Australian law, people convicted of animal cruelty can face up to four years in jail and a fine of A$50,000 ($36,000).