An orphaned otter that amazed SSPCA staff by surviving a freezing cold night alone in Perthshire is recovering well

A poorly otter cub found orphaned in Perthshire at just 8 weeks old is beating the odds and recovering in the Scottish SPCA's care.

The otter was discovered in Methven on 4 February after a member of the public noticed it had been alone all night. The charity said it is impressed that the cub, who has been named Dipper, made it through the night on her own at such a young age.

Dipper is now being looked after at the charity's National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Clackmannanshire.

Centre manager Colin Seddon said: "The gentleman who called us had noticed Dipper the night before but rightly left her alone to give her mum a chance to return.

"However, when he checked again the next morning she was still there distressed and calling out.

"Dipper was too young to be out of her holt so it's amazing she survived a very cold night in the wild.

"She was extremely weak but after fluid therapy we're delighted to say she is doing much better. She is now stronger, feeding well from her bottle and wants to play, which we would expect for a cub of her age.

"Dipper will stay here until she is at least a year old old and we're hopeful she'll then be successfully returned to the wild."

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