A HAMPSHIRE family found itself overrun after mistakenly buying two little gerbils of the opposite sex.

There’s no prizes for guessing what happened next as one gave birth – and then continued to breed and breed.

Now 25 gerbils are being cared for at the Stubbington Ark animal shelter, which is trying to find them new homes.

A spokesman said: “The gerbils were in good condition when they arrived and are friendly and easy to handle.”

Anyone interested in taking on a gerbil can call 01329 667541 or visit the shelter between 10am and 4pm.