Animal rescue groups in Australia were left shocked after they got to rescue a wombat that was found with 26 gunshot wounds.

The incident happened in South Australia.

The wombat was found by a wildlife worker on the side of a road.

According to reports, the wombat, who has been named Harold, was also suffering from exhaustion and dehydration when they were found on the side of a road.

The wombat was found with a total of 26 gunshot wounds.

But despite all the horrific things the wombat has gone through, the strong one survived and is currently being taken care of so he could be normal again.

The Wombat Awareness Organisation, a group in Australia, released a statement about the incident and talked about how experts were taking care of Harold.

The statement reads:

Our vet has popped him on IV fluids, AB’s and pain relief and he is becoming more responsive but he has a long way to go. Would you believe that a beautiful wildlife carer was driving up from the South East today to our vet clinic when this boy showed up on the side of the road and she picked him up and delivered him to the clinic! Devine timing. The next few days are critical but we have everything crossed for this incredibly brave, resilient boy!

The RSPCA has been alerted to the incident and they are currently looking into the crime and are trying to arrest the people or person that could have carried out such a horrible crime.

Wombats are highly targeted in Australia.

According to the Wombat Awareness Organisation, wombats are brought to them regularly with head injuries or from gunshot wounds on their faces.

The sad part about this is that this happens at a very frequent level.

Wombats are protected by the law of Australia, however, Victoria is the only state or territory that does not protect them.

Harold did survive the horrible attack, however, it is not assured if he would survive the entire recovery process.

The Organisation explained:

I am trying not to get too excited as the next 48 hours are crucial and he is far from being out of the woods but he showed enthusiasm for his food today! It is a really positive sign. Aside from this, he is still deeply resting and recovering. Please keep him in your thoughts, I know he feels everyone’s love.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Harold, may he recover from the injuries that he had sustained.

If you have any information about the crime, you can contact the Wombat Awareness Organisation or the RSPCA Australia.

Let’s all hope that he survives this one.