Sixteen lambs have been killed in a suspected dog attack in Fife.

Police are warning dog owners could face prosecution if their pet attacks livestock, urging them to be “considerate”.

Four lambs were also injured in the incident, which happened in a field at Blairadam Farm in Kelty between 10.30am and 1.30pm on Monday.

Police Scotland has launched an investigation and believes the animals were attacked by at least one dog.

Six lambs were found dead on the farm. The other 10 were so severely injured they had to be put down.

The estimated value of the damage is around £7,000, police said.

Police Scotland said it is working to establish the “full circumstances of the incident” and appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

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“The lambing season has started and worrying can cause stress to sheep that can result in them losing their lambs, as well as injuries that can lead to their death,” Inspector Stephen Gray said.

“All of this is at considerable cost to farmers.”

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The force said dogs should be kept on a lead when walking near animals and should not be allowed to run or escape into fields on their own.

Inspector Gray added: “I am asking all dog owners to be considerate.

“Please remember that it is your dog and your responsibility to keep them under control.”

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