Police say the mother may need help

The child was discovered in the rear garden of a house in Railway Street, Splott, on Saturday.

It is believed that the baby was born full-term.

An investigation has begun into the circumstances of the birth and police have appealed for the mother to come forward.

Det Chief Inspector Paul Kennedy, who is heading the investigation for South Wales Police said : "We are extremely concerned for the welfare of the baby's mother and our priority is to ensure her safety.

"It is clear that the baby is recently born. At this stage we don't know if the mother is an adult - she could be a teenager.

"We are appealing for the help of the public for information about the identity of the mother or the child."

Mr Kennedy said police would also like to hear from anyone who knews of an expectant mother who should be full-term about now, and appeared to be in distress.

"If the mother hears this appeal, then we urge her to contact us immediately to ensure her well-being," he added.