The bodies of eight dead babies have been found at a house in Germany.

Earlier reports said seven bodies were found, however German police have now said eight remains were found at the property.

A local woman discovered the remains of one baby and called the police, initial reports previously suggested a doctor discovered the bodies.

Police then found the remains of several others in another room of the property in Wallenfels, northern Bavaria, which is close to the Czech border.

According to police, the bodies were "wrapped in towels and plastic bags".

The bodies are now being examined by forensic experts. Police added that forensic exams are likely to take "some time" given the "poor condition" of some of the bodies, with results not being expected until next week.

Officers said they have so far been unable to locate and interview a former resident of the property, who is a 45-year-old woman, but are questioning several other people.

It is not clear how long the babies have been dead or who was living at the “residential estate” at the time they were discovered.

Officials from the police special operations team have started an investigation in close co-operation with the Coburg Public Prosecuter. They are also being supported by forensic experts.

The small town of Wallefels has a population of around 3,000 people.