Deer mauled in 'barbaric' attack

A Roe deer died after being hunted by a lurcher

Wildlife officers have begun an investigation after a roe deer was mauled by a dog in what has been described as a "barbaric" attack.

Central Scotland Police said the deer was attacked in the Moss Road area of Killearn in rural Stirlingshire and they are appealing for information.

They believe a lurcher-type dog, known as a hunting breed, chased and mauled the animal within a field.

The animal was so severely injured in the attack it was later destroyed.

The incident took place at about 1050 GMT on Sunday 16 December.

Police are searching for the dog's owners, who they believe have access to a dark-coloured estate car.

Inspector Brian Sharkey, wildlife crime coordinator with the force, said: "While this type of incident involving deer is relatively rare, hunting with lurcher-type dogs is not.

"This so-called form of "sport" is barbaric. You can only begin to imagine the terror and suffering this animal was subjected to."

"We are interested in speaking with anyone who was in that immediate area at the time who may have witnessed anything suspicious or who can identity those responsible."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Central Scotland Police on 01786 456370 or information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.