The rabbits, two adults and eight juveniles, were found in cardboard boxes under a bush in the woods by Knowle Lane, Bristol.

They were discovered by a dog walker on 29 December and taken to the animal clinic in St Phillips, Bristol.

An RSPCA spokeswoman said the rabbits were in good condition, but the boxes they were found in were wet and they were left without food or water.

She added they were "incredibly lucky" to have been found - especially with the cold weather.

"There is absolutely no excuse for abandoning an animal in this way, it's cruel and callous," she said.

"If people have pets which they cannot look after for whatever reason, help and advice in available from organisations such as the RSPCA".