A NEWBORN otter has found himself in the caring hands of the RSPCA after his mum left him to fend for himself.

Staff rescued the little bundle on Thursday, April 11 after a member of the public heard the young mammal's screams in Upper Ferry Road, Penallt.

The cub's mother didn't return and the otter was rescued and placed into the care of the RSPCA.

RSPCA officer, Sian Burton, said: "My work is amazingly varied and it just goes to show that the RSPCA cares about the welfare of all animals.

"This little otter has somehow become separated from his mother and could have soon died without our intervention. After being hand-reared for a short while he will be ready for life back in the wild.

"In this case the mother had left her baby, but often when it appears they have been left alone the mum is often nearby and waiting for you to leave so it's best to watch from a distance."

For any concerns on animal welfare call the RSPCA's Cruelty & Advice line on 0300 1234 999.