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Global warming threatens one in six species
Bearded dragon
Amphibians and reptiles are predicted to have greater extinction risks.
Amphibians and reptiles at greatest risk

One in six species could face extinction if global temperatures rise by 4°C, according to research by the University of Connecticut.

Published in Science, the study reveals that South America, Australia and New Zealand face the greatest extinction risks.

The study also shows that endemic species with smaller ranges and certain taxonomic groups, such as amphibians and reptiles, are predicted to have greater extinction risks.

It is hoped that this new understanding will help scientists prepare for, and hopefully prevent, climate-related loss of biodiversity.

Dr Mark Urban from the University of Connecticut analysed 131 predictions about extinction risks from climate change. Previous estimates suggest that anywhere from 0-54 per cent of species could be affected.

He found that the extinction risk from climate change is predicted not only to increase, but accelerate as temperatures rise.

If temperatures rise by 2°C, then global extinction risk will increase from 2.8 per cent to 5.2 per cent. However, if climate change was to continue on its current trajectory (4°C), then one in six species will face extinction.

Speaking to BBC News, Dr Urban said:  "If the world does not come together and control greenhouse gas emissions and we allow the Earth to warm considerably we will face a potential loss of one in six species.

"Many species will be able to shift their ranges and keep up with climate change whereas others will not either because their habitat has disappeared or because they can't reach their habitat anymore."

Australia, new Zealand and South America are predicted to have higher extinction risks because they harbour many species adapted to live in habitats not found elsewhere.

Countries found to have the lowest extinction risks were North America and Europe. 

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Vets to run marathon for World Animal Protection

News Story 1
 Two recently graduated veterinary surgeons will be running the London Marathon in April to raise money for the charity World Animal Protection.

Alex Bartlett and Maeve O'Neill plan to run the race together if they are given the same start times.

Dr O'Neill said: "You're always limited in what you can do to help animals, so it is nice to raise money for a charity that helps animals around the world."

Dr Bartlett added: "I have never run a marathon before and am excited to run my first one for such a good cause!"

Both Dr Bartlett and Dr O'Neill have fundraising pages online. 

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News Shorts
BSAVA releases new Guide to Procedures

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) has published a new edition of its Guide to Procedures for Small Animal Practice.

It has added four new procedures; cystostomy tube placement, endotracheal intubation, point-of-care ultrasound and wet-to-dry dressings.

BSAVA says that it is an essential step-by-step guide to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures performed in practice. The textbook includes new images and illustrations, as well as high-definition videos for use prior to procedures.

Nick Bexfield and Julia Riggs, editors of the new edition, said: "We have built upon the success of the previous editions by responding to the feedback received from the BSAVA readership, and hope this new guide helps to further increase the confidence and accuracy with which these procedures are performed."

Print copies are available in the BSAVA store, with a digital version in the BSAVA library.