A scheme to protect freshwater pearl mussels from poaching has been launched in the Hebrides.
The future of the rare freshwater mussels on the Isle of Harris will be safeguarded with the help of a river watcher.
The species is one of the most critically endangered molluscs in the world partly because of ongoing, illegal pearl fishing
In 2011, they joined giant pandas and Javan rhinos on a list of 365 of the world's most endangered species.
Scotland contains many of the world's most important remaining populations, but Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has recorded a dramatic decline in the number of rivers that continue to support pearl mussels.
Harris is one of 16 Scottish sites being targeted as part of the UK-wide Pearls in Peril initiative. It was suspected mussels were removed from remote areas on the island by poachers last June.
A river watcher employed by RAFTS (Rivers and Fisheries Trusts Scotland) and aided by the River Ness and Beauly Fisheries Trust will work to help prevent any illegal activities that affect pearl mussels, their habitats and host species.
A spokeswoman for SNH said: "Over the last 100 years more than one third of the rivers that used to contain freshwater pearl mussels no longer do so. They are witness to our rivers' deteriorating status and need urgent conservation."
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