A pelican seen being kicked and stomped on by two men in a vicious daylight attack in Melbourne's suburban north-west was so badly injured it had to be humanely killed.

The pelican was left with multiple breaks to its wings and ribs after the shocking attack in St Albans about midday last Tuesday.

The bird was left for dead on Gladstone Street.

Rescuers rushed it to a local veterinarian but it was ultimately euthanised.

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning wildlife officer Suriya Vij described the act as "illegal and alarming".

"This completely senseless act of violence happened in broad daylight, in a suburban street," she said.

Investigators are examining CCTV footage taken in the area but are also looking for people who witnessed the cruelty.

"Pelicans are beautiful animals," Ms Vij told radio station 3AW.

"It is quite disturbing that someone would feel the need to do this, particularly on the street in broad daylight."

The men face fines up to $7928 and/or six months' in jail. 

The offenders are thought to be aged in their 30s, and were described to 3AW as tall and lean.

One was dressed in black, the other black and red.

Anyone with information can call DELWP on 136 186 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.