VISITORS to Pollok Park are being warned to remain vigilant after posters appeared warning of wildlife hunting.

Glasgow City Council has asked visitors to keep control of their pets while in the popular South Side park often frequented by dogwalkers, following alleged incidents of deer being chased and killed by dogs let off of leashes.

In a notice to visitors, the council claimed: “There have been a number of incidents in the park of dogs chasing and killing deer.

“If you suspect a wildlife crime has taken place regarding dogs and deer or any other animal, then please report it to local wildlife crime officers.”

Currently, hunting with dogs is illegal in Scotland.

Legislation is also in place to enforce that pet owners keep control of their dog at all times, or be hit with a “Dog Control Order”.

Glasgow City Council has also warned that similar behaviour has been reported across several parks in the city.

Locals voiced their support of the notices, with one saying: “I constantly see dogs off leashes in Pollok Park.

“There’s nobody about to check on it.”

Another added: “Idiot owners think it’s funny to let their dogs chase the deer.”

A council spokesman said: “There have been incidents in parks all across the city where owners have allowed their dogs to run out of control.

“At Pollok Country Park there was a recent incident where a dog off the lead attacked and killed a fully-grown roe deer.

“But there have also been other incidents elsewhere where swans and other birds have been attacked by dogs.

“Dogs have entered fields at Pollok Country Park and harassed pregnant cattle and young calves, which can lead the cattle to kicking out in self-defence.

“This puts the dogs at risk of harm but also the owner if they follow their pet into the field to try and retrieve them.

“The national outdoor access code is clear that owners must keep their dogs under close control at all times.

“It is a criminal offence to let a dog chase a wild animal and if a dog cannot be kept under control then the owner may face a Dog Control Order.”

Inspector Ryan McMurdo from Pollok Police Station reminded park visitors to keep an eye out for any illegal behaviour, while also reminding dog walkers of their responsibility in open spaces such as Pollok Park.

He said: “Allowing a dog to chase a wild animal is an offence and any incidents reported to police would be thoroughly investigated.

“We want people to enjoy green space in Glasgow, including Pollok Park, but it is important to do so responsibly if you have a dog.

“Anyone exercising their dogs should make sure they keep their pets under close control and on a lead if walking near wild animals or livestock.

“Anyone who witnesses a possible wildlife crime is asked to call 101 as soon as possible to allow police to investigate.”