An ostrich on the loose in Ayrshire may have young with it and an animal charity is warning people not to approach it.

The Scottish SPCA is asking members of the public to be on the lookout for the bird that has been spotted in the village of Patna.

There have been several sightings of the ostrich and people are being urged not to approach it.

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 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."

Although they cannot fly, ostriches are one of the fastest birds on land and can reach speeds of 45mph to outrun predators.

The Scottish SPCA has contacted local ostrich farms to see if any are missing an ostrich but so far they have not discovered where it escaped from.

Sightings of the ostrich should be reported to the Scottish SPCA's animal helpline on 03000 999 999.