Forestry and Land Scotland is appealing for information after rubbish and animal carcasses were dumped at a scenic Highland beauty spot in Glen Carron.

The incident happened at Craig, near Achnaschellach, where several loads of waste were left beside a route popular with tourists, walkers and people accessing nearby Munros.

Among the items discovered were tyres, ovens, fridges and other household waste.

Forestry and Land Scotland staff also found seven sheep carcasses in various stages of decomposition.

The discovery has raised concerns not only about environmental damage but also about the potential health risks posed by illegally dumped animal remains.

The site lies within one of the Highlands’ most striking landscapes, an area regularly visited by people travelling through Glen Carron and exploring the surrounding mountains.

Forestry and Land Scotland says the clean up operation is diverting resources away from other work, while Highland Council has also been involved in removing waste from the site.

Chris Cartwright, Forestry and Land Scotland’s Area Visitor Services Manager, said:

“This is a really spectacular part of the country with some scenery that visitors and tourists will see as being Scotland at its best and the people who live and work here respect the landscape and their neighbours.

“Regrettably, there are some inconsiderate people who clearly don’t care and are prepared to spoil the area by using it as a dumping ground.

“We are having to waste time and resources clearing the mess left behind, and The Highland Council is also having to use resource removing it.

“These are resources that are being diverted from other areas, which obviously then don’t see the benefit of them.

“The impact of fly-tipping is far more wide-reaching than just the site where the rubbish is left.”

The animal carcasses have caused particular concern because of the potential risks associated with decomposing livestock.

Officials say there are approved services available for the disposal of dead animals and that there is no justification for abandoning them in the countryside.

Chris Cartwright said:

“There are official services for the removal of dead livestock and there is no excuse for dumping dead animals.

“There are no visible tags that we could see, obviously removed to prevent identification of the owner so this was a deliberate act.

“It is not only against the law and regulations it is a biohazard that is hugely unpleasant for the community and for visitors to encounter and that could give rise to far more serious issues if, for example, water courses were to be contaminated.

“Police Scotland have been made aware.

“We would urge anyone who spots any unusual activity to notify ourselves, or to notify Police Scotland by phoning 101.

“Do not confront anyone fly-tipping or place yourself at risk but passing on any details that might help identify those responsible would be a great help in stopping this vandalism.”

Anyone with information about the dumping is being asked to contact Police Scotland or Forestry and Land Scotland.