A big cat has been reported on the loose between Drongan and Coalhall.
Police have warned residents to be vigilant after what they believe to be a black panther was spotted in the fields near to the B730 between the two villages.
The public are being warned not to approach the creature which may be injured.
A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "Officers are currently working to locate the animal which may be injured.
"The area is popular with dog walkers so care should be taken and if anyone sees the animal we would ask you not to approach it, but to contact Police via 101 quoting incident number 0780 of Friday, October 19."
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