The Maggie’s penguin trail in Tayside has been struck by vandalism.
Three of the 80 sculptures are being repaired after damage was reported by members of the public.
The Freeze Frame penguin at Victoria Bridge arches in Dundee’s Stobswell was sprayed by graffiti at the weekend.
The Fair Isle penguin in Perth’s Tay Street also suffered vandalism while the Touchy penguin under the Tay Road Bridge in Dundee had to be removed following damage to the head and body.
Dundee SNP councillor Will Dawson said: “These penguins are a huge draw for our city and the region and are a fantastic way for Maggies to raise their profile and raise money to do the vital job that they do.
“Most of us will be touched by cancer at some point in our lives, if not personally it will be a family member or close friend.
“Having been one of these people I truly value the work that Maggie’s and other charities do in research and support for families.
“For someone to have vandalised them so soon into the event is astonishing and extremely disappointing.
“I would urge those people to own up and come forward to take responsibility for their actions.
“If it has been an accident then that can be forgiven.
“But vandalism makes my blood boil.”
The Maggie’s Penguin Parade officially opened to the public on Saturday.
Penguin fans are being challenged to find all 80 penguins positioned in a host of different locations across Dundee city centre, Broughty Ferry, St Andrews, Newport on Tay, Perth, Kirriemuir and Brechin.
Each one will be auctioned off in September to raise funds for Maggie’s Dundee.
Dundee Lib Dem councillor Fraser Macpherson said he was disappointed to hear of the “stupid vandalism”.
He said: “The vast majority of people have so enjoyed the penguins and it’s unfortunate that a small minority attempt to ruin it for everyone else.”
North East region Scottish Conservative MSP Liam Kerr said the people responsible for the damage should hang their heads in shame.
He said: “I’ve been delighted with the amount of public goodwill and the pleasure this has given to families.
“Everyone involved with the project should be proud, and I hope to see the penguins patched up and back in their spots as soon as possible.”
