POLICE have warned that a PANTHER is roaming rural countryside near two villages in Ayr.

The big cat was reported in fields near the B730, close to the villages of Drongan and Coalhall, prompting a police safety warning.

The SSPCA had been called in to help catch the black panther, which may be injured. However, the charity has since confirmed it will not be joining in with the hunt. 

Dog walkers have been warned to be on alert.

A spokesman for Police Scotland said: “Residents in Drongan and Coalhall are being advised by officers to be vigilant after a report has been received of a sighting of what is believed to be a black panther in the fields near to the B730 between the two villages.

“Officers are currently working with the SSPCA 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.”

The Scottish SPCA said it would not be joining in the search for the animal - because its team is “unequipped.”

Animal rescue officer, Alistair Hill, said: “We can confirm we have received reports regarding a possible panther sighting in Ayr.

“We have liaised with Police Scotland and informed them we are unequipped to deal with such animals and, therefore, will not be involved in investigating the incident.”