Forensic experts are examining the scene

The naked child was discovered by a householder in his back garden in Railway Street, Splott, on Saturday.

It is believed that the baby was born full-term, but it is not yet known whether it was stillborn.

An investigation has begun into the circumstances of the birth and an incident room has been set up at Fairwater police station.

Police have appealed for the mother to come forward and house-to-house inquiries have begun in the street.

Forensic tests are being carried out and a post-mortem examination on the body will be held on Monday.

Detective 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.

I feel very sorry for the mother - she must be in a terrible state of shock Splott councillor Alexandrina Evans

"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.

Local councillor Alexandrina Evans said the discovery had shocked residents in the area.

"This is a very close-knit community," she said. "Nearly everybody knows everyone else, and they all look out for one another so they will be totally devastated by this.

"I should think the family who found the baby are traumatised. It must be horrendous and my heart goes out to them.

"I feel very sorry for the mother - she must be in a terrible state of shock and doesn't know who to turn to and where to go. I really feel for both parties."