Easter Ross police are carrying out inquiries following a report of a man approaching a child in Alness.
The incident happened in the Coulpark area of the town, on a footpath near the houses at Coulpark and Coulhill Primary School, at about 12.45pm on Monday.
The unidentified man spoke briefly to the child, who did not stop or otherwise engage with the man.
The man made no attempt to stop the child and did not make physical contact.
Officers are now working to establish the full circumstances of the incident and are keen to identify the man.
He is described as being white and around 35 to 40 years old, of average height with a bald head and clean shaven, speaking with a local accent.
He was wearing a black waist length leather jacket, light coloured jeans and wearing a silver bracelet.
Inspector Jamie Wilson said: “We are keen to identify this man or speak to anyone who was in the area at the time who may be able to help us with our inquiries.
“It should be noted that the matter may be innocuous but we are keen to establish exactly what has happened.
“If the man involved recognises himself from the description then please get in touch.
“In the meantime we will be carrying extra patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the local community.”
Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101.
