A PAIR of otter cub sisters have been rescued from a flooded riverbank near Earlston.

The Scottish SPCA is now caring for the orphaned cubs, who were found alone without any sign of their mothers last Thursday.

They are now in the care of the Scottish SPCA’s National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Fishcross.

Centre manager Colin Seddon told the Border Telegraph: “The cubs found on the river bank in Earlston had a very lucky escape as it was a difficult rescue for our officer in the dark.

“Despite their ordeal, the cubs are doing well.

"They are sisters who are around 10 weeks old and are self-feeding. They don’t need much attention from our staff as they have each other."

Another orphaned cub was found the following day near Brechin.

Mr Seddon added: “The male otter found in Brechin is around 12 weeks old and he was very weak when he first came into our care.

"His body weight is only 50 per cent of what it should be but he is feeding himself and we are hopeful he will make a full recovery.

“He will soon be put in with the girls to make a group of three.

“Typically, otter cubs will remain in the care of our wildlife centre for around a year, as this is how long they would stay with their mother in the wild.

“We are hopeful the otters will be returned to their natural habitat after this point."

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