A reader photographed the sheep on MacNee St before calling police, who sent animal control. Photo: ODT

A trio of bleating herbivores seen hoofing it along a Dunedin street this morning are now back on greener pastures.

Residents of Eglinton Rd in Mornington may have been surprised to see three escaped sheep exploring their new urban territory.

Dunedin City Council compliance, animal and parking services team leader Peter Hanlin said the sheep had escaped from a paddock in Dalry St after a fence was damaged during tree topping work.

The sheep were rescued and returned to their paddock by a council animal control officer, with the help of the owner.

The fence was being repaired.