Police are appealing for the driver of a car which struck a horse on a Skye road to come forward.
The incident happened on the A850 Borve-Dunvegan road near to Bernisdale, at about 10:30pm on Wednesday.
The horse, which escaped from a nearby field, had to be put down at the scene by a local vet after suffering a broken front left leg.
It is understood that the animal belongs to Shona and Charles MacDonald, a couple who live in Bernisdale. They are on holiday but have been informed.
A second horse which had escaped was not struck by a vehicle and several local residents were able to help rein it in.
Police said yesterday that the driver of the car that collided with the horse stopped briefly at the scene but still has to be traced by local officers.
A local police officer on patrol had witnessed the incident in front of him as he travelled west on the other side of the road.
It is understood that after the collision, the officer checked to make sure the driver was not injured and made the scene safe.
Police are now appealing for the driver of the car to come forward to provide a full description of what happened.
Portree-based Police Sergeant Bruce Crawford said: “At the time of this collision it was dark, wet and windy and it is unlikely that the driver of the vehicle could have done anything to avoid striking the horse.
“I would like the driver of the vehicle to make contact with police in Portree via 101 or by attending at the office to ensure that he has all of the necessary information relating to the incident. Unfortunately, the horse sustained un-survivable injuries but I wish to thank local residents and crofters who provided assistance to allow the road to be reopened as quickly as possible.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 101.