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Tattoo project aims to save endangered tortoise
Conservationists engrave tortoise shells to combat trafficking

In a bid to protect one of the world's most endangered tortoise species, wildlife organisations have come up with a novel way to reduce its value on the black market.

Conservationists have taken the drastic measure of "tattooing" two ploughshare tortoises at Singapore Zoo. Identification codes were engraved on the animals' shells to make them less desirable to traffickers, at the same time making them easier for enforcement agencies to trace.

It is estimated that just 400 adult ploughshare tortoises remain in the wild, having been devastated by illegal collection and export.

Prized for its high-domed shell, the ploughshare is critically endangered and has been pushed further to the brink of extinction by demand for unique, exotic pets. This is reported to be particularly true in south east Asia, where the tortoises are sold at markets in Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

In order to help raise awareness of these issues, a "Tattoo the Tortoise" event was held at Singapore Zoo this month. Four organisations - Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Wildlife Reserves Singapore, TRAFFIC and Turtle Conservancy - joined forces to host the event.

Singapore Zoo is currently home to two ploughshare tortoises, which were confiscated in 2009 by the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority. The top shells of both tortoises were engraved during the event.

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.