A farmer in Eidenberg, Upper Austria, is facing legal action after allegedly mowing down six young deer with a machine.

The Linz public prosecutor's office has filed charges of animal cruelty and severe violations of hunting rights.

Reports indicate that the farmer rejected offers from hunters to use drones to locate the fawns before mowing.

Four of the deer were killed instantly, while two others suffered severe injuries and had to be euthanized by hunters.

The incident has sparked outrage, particularly as the killings occurred during the protected season for the deer.

The farmer, who is also a local politician with the Freedom Party (FPÖ), is set to appear in court to answer the charges.