Farmer Peter McLeod said he discovered the guts and not much more of seven lambs in his yards on Taieri Mouth Rd yesterday morning.
It seemed someone had rounded up lambs and ewes in nearby paddocks into the yards, let the ewes go and slit the lambs' throats, gutting them with what appeared to have been a practised hand, Mr McLeod said.
Aside from the cost of the lambs (each was worth more than $100) which was upsetting enough, there was another issue - the lambs had just been drenched.
Animals just drenched were not to be killed or consumed for a period, usually at least about a fortnight, because drench was considered potentially toxic to humans, Mr McLeod said.
One of his animals was shot about six months ago, but he suspected this time someone was preparing themselves a Christmas dinner at his expense.
Police also warned the public to be careful about where they got their meat.
Constable Tim Croudet, of Mosgiel, said if anyone had bought meat from a friend lately, or knew of someone who had received meat they should warn them, and contact police, as the meat might be tainted or make them ill.
Anyone who saw any suspicious activity or anyone rounding up sheep on Mr McLeod's farm - which is about halfway between Brighton and Taieri Mouth - on Sunday, should also contact police.
