Police in Devon have received nine reports of sheep worrying and attacks at farms in Cheriton Fitzpaine, Crediton and Stockleigh English in recent weeks. At least 35 sheep have been killed, with dozens more suffering serious injuries.
The most recent attack took place overnight between Friday, September 18 and September 19, near Cheriton Fitzpaine. A Valais ewe was killed and another injured in Poughill. In Pennymoor, six lambs were killed and 20 were seriously injured.
The previous night, one sheep was killed and several more were injured near Cheriton Fitzpaine. Police say there were earlier attacks in the same area between September 1 and 3, causing an estimated £15,000 loss and injury to livestock.
Further incidents have been reported in Cheriton Fitzpaine and Stockleigh English.
Police officers are appealing for information from members of the public to help locate a dog which was seen in the area. The dog is described as a Blue Merle Collie cross-type dog with distinctive markings: a brown muzzle, blown legs, blue/brown across its head and black markings on its back.
Rural Affairs Officer PC Lucy Wyatt said: "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."
"These incidents have been extremely distressing for the farmers affected and have resulted in significant losses to their livestock."
"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."
"We would ask anyone who recognises the description of the dog, or who has seen a Blue Merle Collie type dog roaming loose in the area, to please get in touch with us."
"We are also encouraging livestock owners to take any additional steps they can to secure gateways and fields, where possible, and we would like to hear from anyone else whose sheep may have been attacked in the area."
Information can be reported through the Force website or by calling 101, quoting reference 50260250003. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling freephone 0800 555111.
Sheep Attacks in Devon Kill Dozens