AN appeal has been made to trace the culprits who raided a protected peregrine falcon's nest in the Borders.

The nest was emptied last month at a secret location near to Jedburgh.

Despite extensive enquiries to track down the egg thief officers have now turned to the community for help.

Wildlife Liaison Officer Jamie Hood said: “The impact that egg theft can have on our native species threatens the long term sustainability of these birds.

“We expect that these may have been stolen to be sold on the black market, and I would urge people who live and work in the countryside to be vigilant in reporting suspicious behaviour to us."

Peregrine falcons are highly protected in Scotland.

The last national survey found that there were just over 500 breeding pairs in the country.

Anyone with information should call Police Scotland on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.