AN owl that was stolen in the Highlands has been returned to its owner and reunited with his mate.
Maximus the Eurasian eagle owl was taken from the village of Brora in Sutherland in a theft believed to have occurred between 9.30pm on Monday and 7.30am the following day.
Police Scotland issued an appeal for information on Wednesday and Maximus was found just hours later.
A force spokeswoman said: "We are pleased to confirm that Maximus, the missing eagle owl from Brora, has been found safe and well.
"Inquiries are still ongoing into the circumstances of the incident, which is currently still being treated as a theft.
"The public are thanked for their assistance and anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101."
The breed of owl is a protected species and considered to be one of the largest in the world, with a wing span of up to 6ft 6in (2m).
Maximus resides at the Blue Highlands Bird of Prey Rescue Centre. A staff member told the PA news agency they were "over the moon" at his return.
An update from the centre's Facebook page said: "Whilst details are still unfolding, and we cannot release all the information due to the ongoing police inquiry, a rather traumatised Maximus has been reunited with Victoria at Blue Highlands.
"If hearts could burst with joy, ours would be.
"Right now we are overwhelmed by the love and support of our community, police and media efforts.
"We are beefing up security as promised with the ongoing and critical funding efforts."
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