An adorable otter cub is being cared for by an animal charity after it was found crying on a doorstep.
The cute cub was separated from its mother during Storm Desmond and was discovered behind a house in Kirkcudbright, near Dumfries, on Monday morning.
The furry creature is now under the care of the Scottish SPCA and is being looked after at its National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross, Clackmannanshire.
Centre staff named the cub Buddy, and said it was “the busiest year” for stray otters as they were looking after 15 others.
Colin Seddon, the centre’s manager, said: “This has been our busiest year for otter cubs and we have 15 in our care at the moment.
“Buddy will be introduced to our three youngest cubs, Ebb, Tide, and Wave, who were also found without their mothers.
“They will stay with us for around a year until they are old enough to fend for themselves back in the wild.
“This is a very hazardous time for young otters as they can easily be washed out of their holts by high rivers and at that age they are not accomplished swimmers.
“If separated from their mothers, they may well perish.”
“We would appeal to the public to be watchful, especially in areas affected by the recent floods.
“If anyone hears or sees any animals they think may be in distress, they should contact our animal helpline for advice on 03000 999 999.”
