Three new born ducklings have been rescued after being found scattered in a garden in Edinburgh.

Scottish SPCA ambulance driver Jenny Wright was called out after a resident of Howden Hall Road in Liberton discovered the newly hatched tufted ducks.

They are now being cared for at the charity’s Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fife.

Centre Manager Colin Seddon said: "These ducklings were found scattered around a garden in the middle of the day so it's possible that mum has been scared off by a cat. Luckily, the owner of the house was able to gather them up and contain them safely in a greenhouse until our ambulance driver arrived.

"We'll be caring for these babies until they're old enough to fend for themselves and then we'll release them back on to the water."

The animal charity has noticed the breeding season for many wild animals and birds has continued for much longer this year. Several very young ducklings and hedgehogs have come into its care later than usual.

Mr Seddon added: “Tufted ducks have usually finished breeding by the end of July, yet these three hatched in mid August so there seems to be a longer breeding season taking place this year.

"Whether this is down to the wet and mild weather we've been having lately or whether there's another reason for it, we're not sure, but we are seeing a lot of late youngsters coming into our care including mallards and hedgehogs.”

Anyone wishing to report an injured or distressed animal should call the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.