The otter is doing well so far, but could face problems

The eight-week-old was discovered by a resident of Kinmel Bay in north Wales - it would seem he was swept away by a swollen river and found washed up yards from a front step.

Although initial reports on his health are good, otters cannot look after themselves at such a young age.

The otter is believed to have been swept away by the river Clwyd before being rescued by the RSPCA and taken to a specialist otter rehabilitation centre in Brecon, mid Wales.

As far as I know he's doing well, he's had a good night and we're keeping our fingers crossed Gareth Jones, Brecon Wildlife Trust

Otters spend most of the day resting in burrows, known as holts, which are built from sticks and branches along the water's edge.

"Obviously otters can swim but if the youngsters get washed out of the holt they float out and then scramble to higher ground," said RSPCA inspector Phil Lewis.

"The animal was at risk from the weather conditions and other predatory animals," he added.

On Tuesday night the otter was transported to the specialist unit in Brecon, where he was being cared for by Gareth and Jane Jones.

"As far as I know he's doing well, he's had a good night and we're keeping our fingers crossed," said Mr Jones.

"The problem is how long he may have been left... they're completely incapable of looking after themselves at that age.

"They do tend to suffer from kidney stones which can prove fatal.

"He has a scab on the top of his head but he does appear to be in good health," he added.

The otter, who weighs 1.5kg, will eventually be moved to a sanctuary in the New Forest to be fully rehabilitated.

He is expected to be released back into the wild in the north Wales area where he was found by spring 2005.