Around 500 dead birds have been cleared off South Ayrshire beaches amid an avian flu crisis.
Council chiefs have confirmed the grim number after a week of dealing with reports of deceased birds in the local authority's key beauty spots.
Waste crews wearing protective clothing have been out at Ayr, Prestwick, Troon and Barassie beaches carrying out a clear up of carcasses.
Signs were placed across the major sun spots ahead of a record-breaking heatwave in Scotland which saw thousands of visitors head to the coast.
Members of the public have been warned not to go near any wild or sick birds.
A council spokesperson said: "Around 500 deceased birds have been removed from beaches in South Ayrshire.
"A small number of reports have been received this week regarding deceased birds, which have been uplifted by our waste management team."
It comes after a dog walker told of a horror scene on Maidens beach last week with 62 birds found to be deceased while sick birds were seen 'gasping for air'.
And a concerned Troon resident spotted seven dead birds during an evening walk last week.
What South Ayrshire Council advise members of the public to do:
• Do not touch any dead or sick birds
• Keep children away from dead or sick birds
• Keep dogs and other animals away from dead or sick birds
• Avoid feeding wild birds, as this causes them to congregate and may encourage the spread of the disease
• Do not touch wild bird feathers or surfaces contaminated with wild bird droppings
• If you come in contact with wild birds, wash your hands and clean and disinfect your footwear
• Please report any sightings of dead birds to South Ayrshire's waste management team on 0300 123 0900
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