Duck and goose recover at Owasso animal hospital; police continue dart-shooting investigation

Owasso Police are investigating after multiple ducks and geese were shot with darts at Elm Creek Park, leaving some birds injured and others dead.

A goose and a duck are now recovering at Family Animal Medicine in Owasso after being hit with darts. Hospital manager Tobra Avery said at least two other birds were killed in the attacks.

The darts used in the incident are at least six inches long and struck the birds in the middle of their bodies.

Avery said the goose is expected to make a full recovery, while the duck had to undergo surgery to remove the dart. It is too soon to know how the duck will recover.

“Children have been very devastated to hear about this and see the injured animals when they've been at the pond over the last couple of days,” said Avery.

The attacks have upset many in the Owasso community, where the ducks and geese are a familiar and beloved presence at Elm Creek Park.

People in Owasso are angry that several birds have been shot with darts in Elm Creek Park. They hope that the person responsible is brought to justice and that these attacks stop altogether.

At least two of the birds struck are Canadian Geese, which are federally protected. Those birds will need to be transferred to an authorized facility to continue their treatment.

Owasso Police are asking for the public's help in identifying the person responsible. Investigators say criminal charges are possible in the case. Anyone with information is urged to call the department’s non-emergency number.