The Forestry Commission has commence a cull of around 120 feral sheep living in the Eredine and Glen Orchy forests this week.

Local farmers were contacted with two letters earlier in the year to request they remove their sheep from the woods before a cull commenced but, due to poor weather, few have been able to attempt a gather. A Forest Enterprise Scotland spokesman said: “Stray sheep cause approximately £250,000 of damage to newly planted woodlands every year and can affect protected conservation areas.

“They also pose biosecurity risks so it is important that we manage the issue promptly.

“Over the past six months we have liaised with local farmers – both directly and through local media – in an attempt to determine ownership and to have the animals retrieved.

“Despite our best efforts, a considerable number of animals remain unclaimed. Any assistance the NSA can offer in this regard would be welcomed.

“Work began today in Eredine, but only two sheep have been culled so far.”