FOURTEEN geckos have been rescued by the RSPCA after they were found dumped among communal bins in Penarth

The lizards were discovered inside four plastic boxes by a local resident who was using the bins at Park View Court, Andrew Road, on Sunday, March 2.

There was no food or water inside the boxes but the geckos were in good condition when RSPCA Inspector Gary Lucas collected them from the surprised resident.

They were transferred to a local wildlife centre where staff are currently caring for the geckos while investigations are carried out.

Inspector Lucas said: "We are trying to find out where these lizards came from and how they came to end up among these bins.

“It is unusual because there was such a large number of them which makes it more likely that someone will have information about where they came from.

“Fortunately they were discovered before they came to any harm but I would like to remind people that it is never acceptable to dump animals like this."

Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA inspector information line on 0300 123 8018 and ask to leave a message for inspector Lucas. All calls are in confidence.

The RSPCA is only able to investigate instances like this thanks to donations from supporters. If you would like to help the RSPCA, you can give £3 now by texting HELP to 78866 (text costs £3 + one standard network rate message).