Police have issued a bizarre warning to dog walkers in Hertfordshire after reports of a mob of wild rheas attacking pets.
The birds, which look similar to an ostrich but are smaller in size, have reportedly been attacking both canines and wild deer.
Residents have been left shocked by the appearance of the feathered threats in Maple Cross and near Rickmansworth.
The local police force has now warned people stay vigilant as the rheas can become aggressive, reports HertsLive.
The birds - thought to number as many as 20 - have also been spotted along the M25, as well on housing estates.
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PC Christian Gottmann, from the Rickmansworth and District Safer Neighbourhood Team, said the sightings were "unusual".
"We want to reassure the public that we are working in partnership with the council, highways and our Rural Operational Support Team to come up with a plan to capture and re-home the birds to a suitable animal reserve," he said.
"Enquiries are ongoing but if you think you may be able to help with this, please get in touch with us.
"In the meantime, we would advise the public not to approach these animals as they are very fast, much like their larger counterparts, and can be aggressive if cornered.
"Unfortunately we have received reports of them attacking dogs and deer, so we ask that dog owners are vigilant when out walking."
For anyone who could help with rehoming the birds, PC Gottmann can be contacted at christian.gottmann@herts.pnn.police.uk.
Information can also be reported online at www.herts.police.uk/report/, or by calling the non-emergency number 101.
