Seven giant tortoises have been found dead in a forest in Devon, sparking a police investigation.
The bodies of two tortoises were discovered in Ashclyst Forest, north-east of Exeter, on January 8.
A further five were found nearby on Friday (January 12).
Devon and Cornwall Police said it is working to establish who owned the tortoises, and is appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
"Enquiries are under way to identify the owners and establish the circumstances that led to the animals being disposed of," said a spokesperson.
"At this time, they are understood to be Aldabra giant tortoises.
"Police are investigating the circumstances given the unusual type of incident and the protected status of the animals.
"Officers are appealing to the public to identify further lines of enquiry that may assist in determining the animals’ origin and assist in the investigation of potential criminal offences."
Aldabra giant tortoises are endemic to the islands of the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles.
Known for their slow movement, giant tortoises are believed to have one of the longest lifespans of any animal, with some living to be almost 200 years old.
Inspector Mark Arthurs said: “We are appealing to members of the public for information to try to establish the circumstances around this discovery and to identify those responsible. We would ask that if anyone knows anything, they get in touch.”
“We would also like to hear from anyone who has recently purchased a giant tortoise in the area or knows of anyone who normally has a large number of tortoises but has fewer now.”
If you have any information that could help with enquiries, please contact police via the Devon and Cornwall Police website here or by calling 101 quoting 50240006127.
