THE Scottish SPCA is caring for a tiny three-four week old orphan weasel.

Scotland’s animal welfare charity was alerted after it was discovered in Newcastleton on May, 12.

The tiny weasel is now being rehabilitated at the charity’s National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross, where she has been named Susie.

Centre manager Colin Seddon said: "Susie is only 16 grams at the moment and is being given milk every two hours.

"She has been showing an interest in chewing recently so we’re hoping to try her with solid food soon as weasels start to wean before their eyes are open.

"We have successfully reared other members of the mustelid family before, including badgers, otters, pine martens, stoats and weasels.

"Don’t let how cute Susie is fool you, weasels are Britain’s smallest carnivore. Once fully grown they are fierce hunters and due to their size they are able to pursue mice and voles in their burrows.

"We expect that Susie will weigh approximately 60 grams as an adult, whereas males can weigh up to 170 grams."

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