The Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environment (DPIPWE) are investigating the deaths of the penguins and are seeking public assistance.

Acting wildlife operations section head Mark Gibson said the carcasses have been taken to Mount Pleasant Laboratories, in Launceston, for post mortem to try and determine the cause of death.

The penguins were collected by wildlife rangers on Wednesday after a member of the public notified them.

“Thanks to the public vigilance we were made aware of this incident and responded immediately,” Mr Gibson said.

“Investigations into all the circumstances surrounding the deaths are continuing and so we would like to encourage anyone who may have any information to contact us to assist in our investigations.”

All reports of alleged unlawful harming of wildlife are regarded extremely seriously by the department.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact DPIPWE’s Wildlife Operations Branch on 0427 437 020 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Information can be provided anonymously.

The Examiner