Police have opened enquiries after it is believed nine mallard ducks were mown down on the B6165 just outside the village of Wilsill.
It happened on Wednesday 18 September 2013 and minutes before the ducks were found dead in the carriageway, they were seen alive together at the side of the road.
Officers are investigating the incident and are urging witnesses to get in touch.
PC Bill Hickson, of Pateley Bridge Police said:
This is a terrible example of careless driving. The ducks were clearly visible and the motorist responsible will have had every opportunity to slow down and pass them with care.
This careless and callous incident has angered and upset many local people and I am urging anyone who can help identify the person responsible to get in touch with the police or Crimestoppers with information.
Deliberately killing or injuring a wild bird is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Anyone who can help officers to identify the person responsible for this incident is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 – select option 2 – and ask for Bill Hickson or Pateley Bridge police.
Alternatively, information can be emailed to bill.hickson@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk
If you prefer to remain anonymous, Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.
