Family of ostriches '˜on the loose in East Ayrshire'

ANIMAL welfare officers are warning people not to approach a family of ostriches on the loose in a village as the adult birds can be 'extremely aggressive'.

Ostriches are on the loose in Ayrshire village of Patna. Picture: Michael Urban/AFP/Getty Images

There have been several sightings of the adult ostrich, which is believed to have young with it, in the village of Patna, East Ayrshire.

Staff at the Scottish SPCA said it is a “mystery” where the family of exotic birds have come from as no-one in the local area appears to have lost an ostrich.

Animal rescue officer Alistair Hill said: “It is unclear where the ostrich has come from but we think it may also have young with it.

“Anyone in the area who spots the ostrich or its young should call us as soon as possible on 03000 999 999 so we can keep an eye on where these birds are.

“We are warning members of the public not to approach the adult ostrich and to especially avoid approaching its young as ostriches can be very protective and can become extremely aggressive.”