Drivers on Highland roads are facing more chaos than usual in this weather - thanks to a herd of reindeer who are eating the salt laid to stop snow settling.
As days of heavy snow continue to wreak havoc on Scottish roads, gritters have been out in force in an attempt to keep traffic moving.
But this reindeer herd had other ideas. As soon as the grit is laid they quickly make their way down from the Cairngorm hills to feast on the salty treat.
They are attracted to the taste as it's similar to mineral lick - a naturally forming mineral animals in nutrient-poor ecosystems eat to boost their diet.
The images were captured on the B970, or Cairngorm ski road, near Aviemore by Lynn McCubbin, 51, who couldn't believe her eyes as dozens of the hungry animals began clambering down the hillside.
She said: "The gritter had just that moment gone down the road and as soon as they turned a corner the local reindeer came down for the salt.
"My husband Derek and I were on our way back from the local ski centre which we couldn't use due to the weather so just happened to be in the right place at the right time.
"It was very funny to see and despite the horrid weather it did bring a smile to our faces, especially two who looked so happy they appeared to come together for a kiss.
"We have snow tyres but many people don't so it got a bit scary on the roads - especially this part where the snow settles because the reindeer have eaten all the salt."
Scotland has suffered badly from some of the heaviest snowfall ever seen in March with hundreds of schools closed all across the country and traffic accidents becoming a regular occurrence.
Lynn lives and works in the Aviemore area where she admits they have been fortunate with the weather but as the ski slope has been shut tourism has suffered badly in the area.
She added: "We've got family in Aberdeenshire and Dumfries and Galloway who have all had a bad time of it but Derek's aunt in Port William lost her electricity for 4 days after the pylons were damaged by the weight of the ice."
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