Animal lovers are being urged to keep an eye out for hedgehogs this winter.

The spiny mammals should be in hibernation, however if they're too small they will be unable to store enough body fat to see through the long sleep or cold weather.

The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA) is currently caring for more than 150 hedgehogs at its National Wildlife Rescue Centre in Clackmannanshire and anticipates that number will increase over the next few months.

The charity has advised people to watch out for the little animal during the day.

Scottish SPCA centre manager Colin Seddon said: "Hedgehogs should be hibernating by now but there will be some out there who won't survive without help.

"Most of the hedgehogs in our care haven't stored up the necessary body fat to go into hibernation or are from late litters.

"Hedgehogs will be out foraging for food such as earthworms, beetles, slugs, snails, insects, fruit and carrion but they'll be finding it very difficult at this time of year.

"We are particularly concerned for hedgehogs seen outside during the day and urge anyone who finds one to call us."

Anyone trying to contain a hedgehog should pick it up using gardening gloves or a thick towel and place it in a secure box. It can then be left with fresh water and tinned cat food until Scottish SPCA officers arrive.

The rescued hedgehogs will then be released once they have reached a suitable weight and the weather improves.

If you find an injured or distressed hedgehog, call 03000 999 999.