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Ground-nesting birds suffer 'widespread declines' 
gray partridge
Gray partridge.
Project receives praise for collaborative approach
 
Six types of ground-nesting birds have suffered widespread declines across Scotland since the 1960s, a new report suggests. Stakeholders involved in a ground-breaking project agree that urgent action is needed to protect populations.

The Understanding Predation project aimed to find ways to tackle bird and mammal predation of six wild birds - black grouse, curlew, golden plover, grey partridge, lapwing and oystercatcher.

Commenting on the project, chairman of Scotland's Moorland Forum, Lord Lindsay, said: "The project has demonstrated that there is a broad consensus over a wide range of topics between scientific and local knowledge of the issues surrounding predation. 

"It has also shown that where there is a will, new solutions can be found to contentious problems through collaboration and joint-working."

The study has been praised for its collaborative approach, which made use of both scientific and local knowledge. Launching the report, Scottish environment minister Aileen McLeod said this method could "prove to be a turning point in the way we tackle these difficult issues in future".

Davy McCracken, head of SRUC's Hill and Mountain Research Centre, added: "Such a collaborative and objective approach helped ensure that the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of all those concerned about declines in ground-nesting birds were taken fully into account.

"Developing such a common understanding between scientists, conservationists and those who work the land is an essential first step in finding solutions to any conflicts associated with predation."

Whilst the study focused on the impact of wild birds, it could prove a useful model for addressing widespread concerns among upland farmers and crofters about the impact of bird and mammal predation on their livestock.

More details of the report can be found on Scotland's Moorland Forum: http://www.moorlandforum.org.uk/understanding-predation-report-launch

 

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

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.