Protected bird shot by boy at school camp

An investigation is underway into the shooting of a native wood pigeon by a boy at a school camp last month.

Anyone convicted of an offence against protected wildlife could face imprisonment for up to six months and/or a fine of up to $100,000.

DOC Taranaki area manager Phil Mohi said a year 10 boy from New Plymouth's Francis Douglas Memorial College had taken an air pistol to camp without the knowledge of his parents, the school or the camp.

Mr Mohi told the Taranaki Daily News that DOC would not prosecute the boys involved but instead hoped to use the incident as a learning tool.

"We are working together with the school and the boys involved to pass on the message that kereru are a special bird and how we may protect them," he said.

School principal Brother Peter said several boys were involved in the shooting and the incident had shocked the school.

- NZPA