Horse owners in Lichfield and Burntwood are being urged to be on their guard after suspicious incidents in the region.
On July 7 an owner in Colton discovered a plait in the mane of one of their horses. Two days later one in a field at Slitting Mill was also discovered to have a small, tight plait in the mane.
A spokesperson for Staffordshire Horse Watch, which is supported by Staffordshire Police, said: “In the past such plaits are thought to have been linked to horse thefts.
“Please be on your guard and report anything suspicious to the police immediately.”