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Captive breeding 'not the solution'
clown fish
Capture and pre-sale mortality rates are said to be 80-98 per cent in 'aquarium' fish.
Clifford Warwick calls for positive lists or outright ban
 
Biologist Clifford Warwick has criticised those who promote the captive breeding of exotic pets as a good alternative to the sale of wild-caught animals.

Writing in The Ecologist, he said that for the individual animal "the abuses inherent to being captive-bred are as bad as they are to being wild-caught".

He believes an outright ban on keeping wild animals as pets, or a 'positive list' system (where species are verified as 'safe' to sell or keep), is the only way to address the welfare and conservation issues.

The issues with wild-caught animals being supplied to the pet trade are well-known - animals are transported across the globe in crowded, unsanitary conditions, facing shockingly high mortality rates.

In 'aquarium' fish, the capture and pre-sale death rates are said to be 80-98 per cent. The 'industry standard' mortality rate for amphibians, reptiles and mammals is 70 per cent in their first six weeks at wholesalers.

The trade also has implications for wild populations, Mr Warwick argues. The rising demand for clown fish after the release of popular film Finding Nemo, resulted in a 75 per cent decline in the species.

However, Mr Warwick points to the unsuitable environments in which captive bred animals are often kept.

He also questions the conservation benefits of captive breeding, writing: "If welfare is set aside, not that it should be, but if it is, then does the evidence demonstrate unequivocal conservation and ecological benefits from artificially raising animals? From over 30 years as a wildlife trade investigator I can confidently state that it does not."

While researching his article for The Ecologist, he claims he could find no examples of captive breeding endeavours that met a list of criteria and were associated with successful conservation or reintroduction of species.

For the full article, visit: http://www.theecologist.org/News/news_analysis/2985202/captive_breeding_saving_wildlife_or_saving_the_pet_trade.html

 

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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  

Click here for more...
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.