TWO abandoned budgies have been rescued by the RSPCA after they were found in a cage dumped in a Darlington field.

The two pet birds were spotted in a field off Shelley Road by a resident who contacted the RSPCA for help.

Animal rescuer Inspector Christine Nisbet is now appealing for information about them.

She said: “The caller told us that they had found the cage upside down in bushes in a field at the end of their garden. Although the poor little birds looked in quite good condition, there was no food in the cage and the water dish was empty.

The birds were rescued on January 13 and it is unknown how long they had been left outside in the cold.

Christine said: “We do understand that people’s circumstances may change, especially at the moment, but if anyone is struggling to cope with their pets we would urge them to reach out for help from friends or family, or charities like ourselves.

"Abandoning pets is never the right option.

“We are now appealing for information to find out how these budgies - a grey and black male and yellow female - came to be abandoned. Anyone with information is asked to call the RSPCA inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.”