The issue will be discussed at the end of February

Councillors are to be asked to consider outlawing the weapons in the face of mounting attacks on people, animals and property.

The motion will be put forward by the member for Seaton, Norman Collie, at a full council meeting next month.

The Labour councillor argues there should be more powers to stop the weapons being abused. The Scottish Executive would have to pass a bylaw.

'Way forward'

Mr Collie said: "The number of incidents involving airguns is creeping up across Scotland and something needs to be done about these weapons.

"I feel this is the only way forward to protect the people of this country. Something has to be done sooner rather than later."

Aberdeen gun shop owner Neil Anderson told BBC Scotland he agreed using airguns illegally should result in harsh punishment, but that he did not feel they should be banned.

An Aberdeen City Council spokesman said it was up to each individual councillor if they wanted to put forward a motion and they were all considered.

A recent Scottish poll found that more than 80% of people questioned would support a ban on airguns.