Police in Fife have issued an appeal for information after a hare coursing incident in the Thornton area on Boxing Day.
Officers say that two dogs were seen to catch and kill a hare on farmland at around 4.15pm.
Three men were also spotted on foot with the dogs, and police are keen to trace those responsible as soon as possible.
One of the men involved has been described as in his late 30s, six foot tall, of stocky build with short blonde hair.
He was wearing a light coloured sweatshirt and dark trousers.
The other two men are both described as being in their 20s, shorter than the first and of smaller build with short dark hair. One also had what police describe as “sharp” facial features, while both wore dark clothing.
All three men had hoods and hats on.
The dogs are described as a brindle brown greyhound and a larger, tan greyhound.
Sergeant Chris Mutter, of Glenrothes Police Station, said: “Intentionally or recklessly allowing dogs to kill a wild hare is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and we take these incidents very seriously.
“The men were seen and heard shouting and whistling for their dogs off Balbeggie Avenue and Grantsmuir Road and were on foot, so I am keen to speak to anyone who may have seen a group of men with dogs in this area yesterday afternoon, or anyone who recognises them from their descriptions.”
Anyone who thinks they can help officers with their investigation should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident 2281 of December 26, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
