Police warn of rise in livestock thefts after sheep stolen from field

Livestock owners are being warned to be on their guard amid a rise in thefts of the animals across the country.

The warning came as two sheep, including one that is kept as a pet, were stolen overnight from a field while a third was found with its legs tied up.

The theft happened overnight on 23 July from a field in Wootton, near Dover, Kent.

Kent Police said a black Zwartbles sheep, which was being kept as a pet, was taken along with another small Hebridean sheep.

A third sheep was found with its 'legs tied up' in the field, and the other two have disappeared, the force said.

While issuing an appeal for information, police also revealed that while livestock thefts are rare in Kent, it is on the up nationwide and the force urged owners to be vigilant and to check them regularly.

Sergeant Darren Walshaw, from Kent Police’s Rural Task Force, said: "There is an indication nationally that this crime type is on the increase, although in Kent they still remain rare.

"This particular report is upsetting as the Zwartbles sheep was a pet as well, so is dearly missed.

"Livestock owners are reminded to ensure their livestock are kept safe and to make regular checks on them.

"I would also encourage the rural community to be vigilant when out and to report any suspicious activity, including descriptions and vehicle details of those suspected to be involved in a theft offence."

He urged anyone with any information on the missing sheep to contact Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/134280/23.

Is livestock theft common and what can you do to avoid it?

According to the British Transport Police website, grazing animals can be an easy target, especially in remote rural locations.

Its advice is to:-

• check on your animal(s) regularly

• report any suspicious vehicles

• improve security around the area where the animal(s) graze

• Join a Farm Watch scheme if there is one available

• Use ear tags, horn brands, freeze marking, hoof branding, tattoos and microchips to help identify your animal(s) if they’re stolen

What should you do if an animal is stolen?

In the case of cattle (cattle, bison or buffalo) you will need to report the loss or theft of an animal to the British Cattle Movement Service within seven days, the BTP says.

It also shares a link on how to report livestock theft online.