Crafty farmers are allegedly kidding gullible tourists...by making goats perch in branches.
Morocco’s “tree dwelling” goats have become a must-see after featuring in a TV travel advert.
However, campaigners say it’s a scam with animals enticed into the branches and tourists paying to take pictures of the bizarre sight.
The animals, seen high in the boughs of Argan trees between Marrakech and Essaouira, are balancing on platforms.
Photographer Aaron Gekoski, 38, investigated for the Born Free Foundation.
He said after visiting the North African country: “I heard they cajole the goats into the trees.
"They take [them] home late afternoon, coaxing them back at sunrise.
“Goats are incredibly nimble navigating trees, though generally they stand in one place, looking sick and forlorn.
“The tourists seemed blissfully unaware and 'oohed' and 'ahhed'.
"It’s incredibly hot standing in a tree all day long and generally the goats are in poor condition.”
Dr Chris Draper, head of animal welfare at Born Free, said: “Images of goats in trees suggest a rural idyll where agile animals make the most of their environment.
"Sadly, the reality seems anything but natural.”