A man had to be rescued by police when he was being chased by a baby squirrel.

Emergency services received a call on Thursday from the man, who claimed he was being chased down the street by the tiny animal.

Police in Karlsruhe said the unnamed man called them in desperation after he was unable to shake off the small rodent.

Police said on Twitter the man told them: "Help, I'm being pursued by a squirrel."

Officers launched their own chase for the squirrel which they caught and the animal fell asleep.

“It often happens that squirrels which have lost their mothers look for a replacement and then focus their efforts on one person,” said Christina Krenz, a police spokeswoman.

Police say the rodent has now become their new mascot and has been dubbed Karl-Friedrich.

The animal is being well looked after in an animal rescue centre.