Remains linked to missing Brit hiker Esther Dingley could have been dragged to a path in the Pyrenees by wild animals, French police claim.
The grim theory was suggested by an officer, investigating the disappearance of the Oxford graduate, 37, last seen in November.
Bones were found close to Port de la Glere, on France’s border with Spain, on Friday
Brown bears and wolves are among the creatures roaming freely in the mountain range.
Commander Jean-Marc Bordinaro, who has been involved in the search from day one, said: “This is indeed the area that Esther Dingley was supposed to be in when she disappeared, but we need to be cautious while the identification process is underway.
“Everything suggests that these bones were recently moved by animals. They would not have been there a few days earlier.”
Brown bears and wolves are among the animals roaming freely in the Pyrenees, and birds of prey such as vultures are also a common sight.
Forensics experts are investigating a possible match with DNA provided by Ms Dingley’s mother, 74-year-old Ria Byrant.
Ms Bryant has also confirmed that a scan of her daughter’s teeth has been requested by the French, through the British consulate in Bordeaux.
Ms Dingley had a distinctive yellow tent, and a bright red-and-grey rucksack with her, but there is no trace of either at the site.
Commander Bordinaro had previously admitted that it was “very likely” that Durham-born Ms Dingley had been involved in a mountain accident, and had been unable to raise help.
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The search for her was called off in February because of deteriorating weather, but it resumed in the spring.
In her final message to Mr Colegate on November 22, Ms Dingley wrote:
“Might dip into France. Hoping Refuge Venasque has a winter room. Keep you posted when can. Love you xxx”.
