Pennsylvania ? Dozens of domestic turkeys were staked to bales of straw and used as live targets in an archery contest, and a sportsman’s club was charged in what one investigator called “the most gutless act of cruelty,” authorities said.

The contest at Elstonville Sportsman’s Association featured the fowl secured at their feet, allowing them to flap their wings. Participants paid $12 for three attempts to hit one with an arrow, with those drawing blood winning the animal, prosecutor Christine Wilson said. About 40 turkeys were killed.

The club’s manager declined to discuss the case Friday.

The association faces fines of as much as $4,000.