An animal charity is calling for the public to dispose of waste properly after two fallow deer got caught in discarded electric fencing.

The Scottish SPCA were called to the rescue after a member of the public spotted the trapped animals on March 15 in Wigtownshire, south-west Scotland.

Animal rescue officer Sheena MacTaggart said: "This pair were very lucky to have been spotted by a member of the public who realised something wasn't right.

"On inspection the caller realised it wasn't just their antlers that were stuck together, but the deer were tangled up in wire from an electric fence.

"With help from one of our inspectors, we were able to free the pair and release them back into the nearby forest.

"We can't say how long they had been intertwined for but we do know they would never have been able to untangle themselves."

The Scottish SPCA is often called to instances of animals that have come into contact with throwaway waste. Just last Friday, a curious cat had to be rescued in Argyll and Bute after getting its head stuck in a discarded tin can.

Ms MacTaggart added: "Unfortunately this isn't the first call I've had involving deer and discarded rubbish.

"It is so important the public properly dispose of all litter, especially wire, rope and netting so instances such as this don't happen.

"Wildlife aren't always as lucky as these deer and improperly discarded waste can be fatal to Scotland's wild animals."

Anyone concerned about the welfare of an animal can contact the Scottish SPCA's helpline on 03000 999 999.