Police are searching for the owner of a distinctive dog believed to be involved in a series of fatal sheep attacks in Devon.
Devon and Cornwall Police has launched an investigation into nine reports of sheep worrying and attacks at farms. A "blue merle collie type dog" has been sighted in the affected areas.
At least 35 sheep have been killed and "dozens more" have suffered serious injuries. PC Lucy Wyatt, rural affairs officer, said the spate of incidents had been "extremely distressing" for farmers.
She added: "We appreciate that the owner may be completely unaware that their dog is leaving home during the evening or overnight, and we are keen to identify them as soon as possible."
The force said officers were becoming "increasingly concerned" about the rise in incidents. Attacks have taken place in the Cheriton Fitzpaine, Crediton and Stockleigh English areas.
The dog sighted in these areas was described as a blue merle collie cross-type dog with distinctive markings: a brown muzzle, brown legs, blue and brown across its head, and black markings on its back.
Wyatt said: "The dog is quite distinctive and has been seen in the areas where sheep have been found injured or killed. It appears to be nervous and moves very quickly."
The most recent incidents took place overnight between 18 and 19 September. A Valais ewe was killed and another injured in the Poughill area, while six lambs were killed and 20 seriously injured on land in the Pennymoor area.
One sheep was killed and several others were injured between 17 and 18 September near Cheriton Fitzpaine.
Earlier attacks happened in the same area between 1 and 3 September, causing an estimated £15,000 loss and injury to livestock.
Further incidents were reported in
Police Seek Dog in Series of Devon Sheep Deaths