Warning issued following attempted thefts of young lambs in Scotland

Police Scotland have received several reports in recent days from livestock owners of people attempting to catch young lambs, in some cases driving cars into fields among the ewes and lambs.

One incident involved the theft of a four-week-old Texel lamb from a farm in Dumfries and Galloway.

Livestock theft cost an estimated £2.7 million in 2023, according to NFU Mutual’s latest figures.

Hannah Binns, NFU Mutual’s rural affairs specialist, said: “It is incredibly concerning to hear about these incidents involving young lambs in Scotland.

“Being a sheep farmer’s daughter, I know that rearing livestock takes months of meticulous planning, care and effort, making such thefts devastating for farmers.”

Ms Binns explained that this crime not only disrupts breeding programmes and adds pressures onto sourcing and purchasing replacement livestock, but it can cause a huge amount of upset and worry to farmers and the families about the welfare and treatment of stolen farm animals.

“We’re urging that farmers remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police. It is worth noting down any vehicle registration numbers, as well as observing those involved and capturing video footage where safe to do so.

“Also consider restricting vehicular access to field gates and relocating livestock into fields away from roadsides if possible,” the expert added.

READ MORE: 19 pregnant ewes stolen from farm in Worcestershire

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How to deter livestock thieves?

PC John Cowan from Police Scotland said: “The Rural Crime Prevention Team would urge people not to publish video footage on social media but to send the police and don’t enter into arguments or pursue people.”

To help tackle the theft of farm animals, NFU Mutual has funded the UK’s first national livestock theft prevention officer at the National Rural Crime Unit.

The organisation is also working closely with them to identify criminal activity and ensure dedicated police resources are targeted in areas most needed to protect farmers and their livestock.

To deter livestock thieves, NFU Mutual advises farmers to:

• Ensure stock is clearly marked and records are up to date.
• When possible, graze livestock in fields away from roads or consider housing them inside.
• Check stock regularly – and vary times of feeding/check-ups.
• Consider a high-tech marking system.
• Join a Farm or Rural Watch scheme to share information about rural crime in your area.
• Ask neighbours to report any suspicious sightings to the police.
• Dial 999 immediately if an incident is taking place – do not approach criminals.

Read more rural crime news.