A roe deer suffered an agonising death after being trapped in an illegal snare in Fife.
Animal charity, the SSPCA, believe the deer was suffocated and suspended from a wall after being caught around two months ago.
Its rotting carcass was discovered in woodland near North Queensferry last week by a member of the public.
They also found a number of homemade snares.
An undercover inspector for the SSPCA said: “The snares had been made from bike brake cable/wire and set specifically to catch a deer.
“With no stops on the snares it meant the deer would have suffered an agonising death through suffocation and possibly suspension from a stone wall.
“It is thought the deer had been caught in the snare about two months ago.
“Unfortunately our enquiries so far have not resulted in any leads.”
The inspector has urged anyone with information that could help in the investigation to come forward.
Calls can be made anonymously if wished to the SSPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
* The Courier decided not to use the SSPCA’s photo of the deer’s remains in this article as some people may find it upsetting. If you wish to view it, click here.
