Police believe illegal activity is responsible for the unexplained disappearance of birds of prey in the Highlands.

Wildlife experts think buzzard and goshawk nests at the Moy Forest in Tomatin were abandoned in May.

They said there was evidence of disturbance at four buzzard nests but it is unclear why a nest belonging to a pair of breeding Goshawks was vacated.

Giles Brockman, environment manager for Forest Enterprise Scotland said: "I am really disappointed to see this case of deliberate persecution on the National Forest Estate.

"Forest Enterprise Scotland will work closely with partners to stop this unacceptable practice."

Anyone with any information about the disappearance has been asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.