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Shocking rise in red kite persecution
Red kite
The red kite become extinct in England in 1871 following years of persecution by game keepers.

Police appeal for public support

Members of the public are being urged to support police in the fight against red kite persecution.

In the last two months, eight red kites in the North Yorkshire region have been shot or died in circumstances that indicate poisoning.

One of the birds, found near the market town of Malton, was rehabilitated and released back into the wild.

Four of the birds were so badly injured a vet had to euthanise them. The three birds suspected of poisoning are being examined by the Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme.

PC Gareth Jones, wildlife crime co-ordinator at North Yorkshire Police, said: "Red kites are magnificent birds than can be regularly seen soaring over our area, bringing pleasure to many people.

“They are a Schedule 1 bird and as such are afforded special protection under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. I am personally saddened by the scale of persecution of these birds - it has to stop, and I would ask for anyone who can help this investigation to get in touch."

The red kite become extinct in England in 1871 following years of persecution by game keepers. In recent years the bird has been re-introduced through breeding programmes at a number of locations nationally.

Anyone with information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for PC Gareth Jones, or email gareth.jones1237@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk.

Image (C) Tim Felce

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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.