Animal rescuers are appealing for information after a kitten was abandoned in a wood in Aberdeen.
The Scottish SPCA was alerted on Tuesday after a member of the public discovered the tiny cat in the Marywell area, close to a quarry at Cairnrobin.
The female kitten – thought to be just three or four weeks old – had been left under a box which had been made into a shelter, along with a blanket and toy.
She is now in the care of the charity’s Aberdeenshire animal rescue and rehoming centre at Drumoak, where she has been named Tootie.
Senior animal care assistant Jacki Bell said that dumping the frightened animal in a remote spot was a “very cruel” thing to do.
“It was clear she had been abandoned,” she said.
“Tootie is too young to be outside by herself and she should still be with her mother so one of our staff members is currently fostering her and giving her round the clock care.
“We think Tootie has been someone’s pet until now as she is extremely friendly, indicating she has had a lot of human interaction.
“Thankfully, Tootie is healthy and happy.”
The charity is not looking to re-home Tootie as she is still so young, but wants to find the person who left her behind and is appealing for anyone who recognises her to get in touch.
Anyone with information should contact the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.