Keepers at Marwell Zoo near Winchester, Hampshire have had a delightful surprise, having spotted a tiny potoroo joey outside its mother's pouch for the first time.

They believe the joey is around three months old, but it has only recently been seen darting in and out of first-time mum Truffle's pouch.

Even in a zoo, potoroos can be elusive due to their nocturnal habits - despite being known for their energetic nature. Native to south-eastern Australia, they resemble miniature wallabies.

Protective parents Truffle and dad Neville have built two nests inside their enclosure, where they often tuck the joey away for safety.

Potoroo joeys begin life about the size of a jelly bean inside their mother's pouch. Marwell believes that now Truffle has given birth once, she is likely to continue producing babies regularly for as long as she is able.