A number of cattle have been stolen from farms in an area of Aberdeenshire.
Police are appealing for witnesses following the incidents in Garioch.
Between Monday, June 27 and Friday, July 8 three limosin, two simmental and a British blue cow were stolen from fields between Blackburn and Hatton of Fintray.
In a second incident, up to 14 charlois cows were stolen from a field between Monnymusk and Castle Fraser about 2pm on Wednesday, July 27.
The combined value of the cattle is believed to be more than £32,000.
All have ear tags which are clearly visible.
Inspector Jon Millar, the local policing inspector for Garioch, said: “We are appealing for any information on these incidents which may or may not be related.
“While this type of crime is relatively rare in this area, the loss of cattle can have such a devastating and lasting impact on farmers and their families and we are working with them and the wider farming community and industry to try to identify who is responsible and where the cattle have gone.
“It is believed the animals were herded into a waiting vehicle.
“Our local officers are providing additional visibility in the area and we will continue to work with our partners and communities to reduce the risk of further incidents.
“It is vital we speak to anyone who may have seen the cattle being taken from the field or walked along the road.
“I’d also specifically appeal to anyone who may have been offered the livestock or carcasses.”
Anyone with information about the thefts or location of the stolen cattle is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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