Bendigo resident Tim House notified council after he found the cutlery covered in an unknown substance as he walked along the track on Monday afternoon.

The City of Greater Bendigo said they have since removed the cutlery. The unknown paste has been identified as a type of glue.

Mr House said he was concerned someone purposefully left the items to harm pets who use the trail.

Read more: Central Victoria pet owners warned to confine pets during Forest Fire Management Victoria fox baiting program

"The paste looks like peanut butter but you can see the green in it," he said. "It has a stinky, chemical smell. It smells a bit like snail bait.

"It's a serious thing. We walk our dogs out there and so do a lot of other people. There's just no need for it."

Bendigo police said they have not been to any jobs in the area and could not provide any other information on the matter.

Have you signed up to the Bendigo Advertiser's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in central Victoria.