A young deer that became wedged in the bars of a metal fence was freed in a delicate rescue operation.
Officers from Scottish SPCA were called to Cradlehall Meadows, which is close to an expanse of fields in Inverness between the A9 Inverness-Perth road and A96 Inverness-Aberdeen road.
They calmed the animal down while gently manoeuvring its body to an angle that allowed them to gradually squeeze it through the narrow gap.
The entire operation, which happened last week, took about 20 minutes.
The male roe deer was thoroughly checked over for injuries before being taken to an area that has a known population of deer and released.
Photographs taken of the incident show the poor animal cowering on the ground with half of its body through the metal railings.
Animal rescue officer Clare Anderson said: “A lady had spotted the deer running out of a field and straight into the fence.
“It’s possible he may have taken fright as he ran into the gate with force and became stuck.”
She added: “It took us around 20 minutes to get him out as we had to lift his body at an angle and move one hip through at a time.
“After checking he wasn’t hurt, we released him into a wooded area where there are other deer.
“We’re glad we were able to help him out as it must have been quite an uncomfortable experience.”
Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed animal should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.