POLICE are appealing for information after the remains of a protected bird species were found near a loch.
On Friday, the remains of an osprey were discovered near the Loch of the Lowes, Dunkeld, where the bird is believed to have been nesting.
Inquiries are at an early stage to establish the full circumstances.
Inspector James Longden said: “It is illegal to kill any protected species and we are working closely alongside partner agencies to confirm what has happened here and whether there is any criminality involved.
“Information from the local community could prove vital and it is important we speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area, or who may know something which could assist our investigation.”
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It comes after Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve - which operates a live webcam of a well-established osprey nest - issued a statement on Thursday expressing concern about the welfare of the male osprey named LM12.
They said: "Unfortunately, it is now 4 days since we last saw male osprey LM12 depart the reserve after a period of incubation, heading off on what looked to be a fishing trip.
"Sadly, there have been no sightings, or calls since the start of the week from NC0 that suggest he is around.
"For a breeding osprey to have been absent from the nest for this long is highly unusual, so it is likely that something has happened to LM12 preventing him from returning. Whether it is injury, illness, or something else such as entanglement we just don't know.
"It has been humbling to watch the determination, commitment & care NC0 has given to incubating her eggs for such a long period without a proper break. However, it is now 5 days since NC0 last ate, which is typically the point that a female will be forced to leave the nest to hunt.
"We have seen NC0 become more restless over the last 24 hours, taking regular flights around the loch to stretch her wings and no doubt see if she can spy LM12. Those flights appear to have become more frequent and fish orientated this morning.
"Ultimately, should she eventually have to leave the nest to hunt, she will have to risk leaving the eggs exposed to predation and becoming chilled."
The Scottish Wildlife Trust later issued a statement confirming that the remains are believed to be that of LM12.
It said: "It is with a very heavy heart that we announce that a dead osprey was found near Dunkeld believed to be LM12."
Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 3266 of Friday May 3.
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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