The RSPCA is caring for a lucky little hamster that was rescued from a magpie in Somerset.

The animal welfare charity was called on Tuesday (13 September) morning to reports of a hamster being attacked by a magpie in a garden in Priory Avenue, Taunton.

The quick-thinking caller managed to rescue the little rodent from the bird and took her to safety, keeping her in a large shoe box until the RSPCA arrived.

RSPCA inspector Peter Barton collected the adult hamster – now named Maggie – and took her to the charity’s West Hatch Animal Centre in Taunton where she is now being cared for.

Anita Clark, deputy manager at West Hatch, said: “Maggie is being treated for superficial wounds at the moment but apart from these injuries and some missing nails, she seems to be okay.

“She is a little wary of being handled at the moment but that’s not surprising given her frightening ordeal and her run-in with the magpie!

“She’s a very lucky lady!”

If no one comes forward to claim Maggie then she will be available for rehoming. If you’d like to give her a home, please contact West Hatch by calling 0300 123 0747.

The RSPCA is a charity and we rely on public donations to exist. To assist our inspectors in carrying out their vital work please text HELP to 78866 to give £3 (Texts cost £3 + one standard network rate message).