The hamsters which were thrown out of the window of a moving car in Winchester have been rehomed.

Buddy and Gizmo, who were caged at the time, were found in Swan Lane in the city centre at around 12.55pm on Tuesday November 27.

Animal welfare experts at the RSPCA launched an appeal for witnesses after the incident.

RSPCA inspector Jan Edwards said at the time: “We had a call from a member of the public who’d heard a large bang and when they went outside saw some children with a hamster cage they’d seen thrown from a moving vehicle. "Inside were two Roborovski hamsters, one of which sadly has injuries to the nose and face.

“I’m now investigating what happened to the hamsters and who was responsible for discarding them in such a dangerous and cruel way.

“I’d like to hear from anyone who may know where they have come from or who saw anything suspicious in the area.

“I’d also like to hear from anyone who recognises the cage, which had clean bedding and water bottles or the box of extra supplies, including sawdust bedding, which was also thrown from the vehicle.”

After being cruelly discarded by the side of the road, the hamsters were cared for by the team at RSPCA Ashley Heath Animal Centre, in Ringwood, until last Wednesday when a new owner came forward.

The owner, who did not want to be identified, but sent in photos of the pair enjoying their new life, said: "They are very happy in their new home and are enjoying a new start to their life.

"Such a sad story but a happy ending. I've had [Roborovski] hamsters for eight years so gaining Gizmo and Buddy's trust shouldn't take long.

"They are so gentle I'm just so happy I have them because they will be spoiled with love here."

An update on the progress of the investigation was not available at the time of going to press.

Anyone with information is urged to call the RSPCA appeal line on 0300 123 8018 and leave a message for Inspector Edwards.