7:30 to air footage of dugong, turtle slaughter.

7:30 tonight has an exclusive special investigation uncovering evidence of the butchery and illegal trade of endangered species in Queensland.

It has obtained shocking footage of the live slaughter of vulnerable dugong and sea turtle species, amidst claims some animals can take days to die.

Community leaders admit that the primarily indigenous trade of dugong and sea turtle meat and products uses native title rights as its cover.

It’s a black market industry which has poisoned race relations in the north. Reporter Sarah Dingle’s interviewees include traditional owners in Queensland and animal rights advocates.

7.30 airs on ABC1 and ABC News 24 tonight.