It is feared that a number of sheep at Barns Ness, near Dunbar, have been found to not be pregnant due to dogs chasing sheep in the area and forcing them to abort their lambs.

A recent scan of the sheep in the area by the shepherd at Barns Ness found that 14 sheep were without lamb. This is a higher number than expected.

It comes after several cases of sheep worrying incidents have been reported to rangers and to police in the last few weeks.

READ MORE: County sheep killed as police warn of more sheep worrying incidents

A Rangers spokesperson said: “Results of sheep scanning at Barns Ness earlier this month showed that 14 were without lamb, a higher number than expected, with many of those sheep showing signs that they had been in lamb earlier this season.

“Abortion or reabsorption is likely to have been the result of stress caused by dogs chasing the sheep, even where no external physical damage is caused.

“Please look after livestock and wild animals in the countryside by keeping your dog under close control, and ideally on a lead.”

READ MORE: Sheep worrying at Barns Ness reported to police

A Police Scotland spokesperson previously warned: “Even if you think your dog would never chase sheep, this cannot be guaranteed, so please be prepared and keep your dog on a lead until well away from sheep and other livestock.

“Sheep worrying can have a catastrophic effect on pregnant sheep, as they will abort their lambs, and if the sheep is attacked, injuries can be so severe that they need to be euthanised.

“Sheep and other livestock are protected under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Scotland Act 2021 and there are fines of up to £40,000 and prison sentences for dog owners who let their pets worry, kill or injure livestock.”