TWO baby red squirrels are recovering at the Scottish SPCA centre in Fishcross after they were found alone in Dundee.

Animal welfare officers were alerted yesterday (Tuesday, May 17) when a member of the public discovered the siblings lying cold and weak on the ground.

The squirrels, one male and one female, are now being looked after at the National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Clacks where staff have named them Red and Ruby.

They are said to be around three weeks old and will require help before being released back into the wild.

Centre manager Colin Seddon said: “A member of the public came across the siblings whilst he was taking his dog for a walk.

“They were lucky to have been found as they would have been vulnerable to predators such as foxes, gulls and domestic cats.

“The gentleman took them home and placed them in a container next to his living room window in the sun so they could heat up gradually.

“Their mother may have been moving them when they fell by accident and hasn’t come back for them, possibly because there were people around.

“Red and Ruby are doing well in our care and are currently being hand-reared with formula. When they are fully weaned they will be moved to a large indoor enclosure until they are strong enough to be moved to one of our outdoor enclosures.

“It’s good that they have come in together as this will help their development before they return to the wild.”

Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed wild animal should call our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.