HUNDREDS of animals have been seized as part of an investigation by North Yorkshire Police's Rural Taskforce.

Dogs, sheep, goats, rabbits, turkeys, ducks and chickens are now being looked after in secure locations, after police found a man in suspicious circumstances in the Thirsk area at about 4pm on Friday, October 12.

About 30 live turkeys were found in a pickup truck at the scene, and a large number of other animals were then located at the premises, including about 90 sheep and goats, about 80 ducks, about 180 poultry, nine rabbits and ten pigeons.

Following assessment by a vet one of the goats and two of the turkeys had to be put down.

Two border collie dogs which were reported stolen from Lancashire were also located, and will be reunited with their rightful owners.

The 42-year-old man, from the Ripon area, was arrested on suspicion of the theft of animals, money laundering and breaching an order disqualifying him from keeping animals, and has been released under investigation.

Police said many of the sheep and goats have distinguishing identification marks or tag numbers, and enquiries are underway to find their owners. The owner of about 40 chickens has been identified.

Officers particularly want to find the owners of 11 Swaledale tup lambs, and speak to anyone who lost or sold 30 turkeys on or around Friday, October 12.

Sergeant Kevin Kelly, of North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Taskforce, said: “We really need the public to pull together with this one, and help us get the word out there, as we suspect that not all of the animals will be stolen from the North Yorkshire area.

“The sheer volume of animals makes this a complex investigation. Our priority has been to ensure that the animals are safe and well. We are working closely with the RSPCA as our enquiries continue, as we look to restore any stolen property to its rightful owners as quickly as possible."

Anyone with any information should email ruraltaskforce@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk quoting reference 12180191078.