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CCTV used to reduce piglet predation
BPEX conduct field trial to identify predators

In order to find out more about the causes of pre-weaning mortality in piglets, cameras have been installed at an outdoor facility in East Anglia, as part of a field trial by BPEX.

The cameras will identify predators going into the pens at night and periods during the day when members of staff are absent.

Four cameras have been placed in one field, each mounted at a height of 10 feet and covering a 25 metre distance.

Samantha Bowsher, assistant knowledge transfer manager at BPEX, said: "We know that having a 'fox problem’ can increase mortality by anything between 2 per cent and 10 per cent in a batch but we have never done any trials to assess the true cause.

"The cameras will allow us to accurately record the number of visits by predators, what type of predators they are, how many piglets are taken and the sows' behaviour and reactions.

"By making this information available to the industry, it will help producers develop effective ways of reducing the problem."

The cameras will transmit footage back to a recorder housed 400 metres away, as there is no power in the paddocks.

Footage will then be stored ready for collection and farmers can select which time periods they wish to view.

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FIVP announces third series of Practice Matters

News Story 1
 The Federation of Independent Veterinary practices (FIVP) has announced a third season of its podcast, Practice Matters.

Hosted by Ian Wolstenholme, series three will focus on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation, including a discussion about some of the expected impacts on independent veterinary colleagues.

Episode one launches on 13th January with guests Drs David Reader and Scott Summers, who will draw on their research into the CMA investigation and provide insights into themes such as transparency, pricing and consumer trust.

Ian Wolstenholme said: "In its third series, we will try and hone in on what the changes will mean in reality for independent practices with advice and guidance on implementation and delivery, drawing on the experience of our own team and other experts in the profession. Hope you can join us soon!" 

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News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk