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Zambian hippo cull suspended
hippo
Born Free last week urged Zambian authorities to abandon the exercise.
Officials say they are 'evaluating the matter'

A five-year hippo cull in Zambia's Luangwa Valley has been suspended, the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) has revealed.

It was revealed last week that the culling exercise, which began in May, would aim to remove 2,000 hippos over five years.

Initially, the cull was reported to be a 'wildlife management tool' to prevent the spread of anthrax among wild animals. But in a statement on Tuesday (14 June), the DNPW said: 'Recently research revealed that the water levels in the Luangwa River system have been low and insufficient to support the hippo population especially in the dry season.

'DNPW has assessed the situation and estimated that 2,000 hippos need to be culled in a space of five years.'

Born Free last week urged Zambian authorities to abandon the exercise, questioning whether there is evidence to suggest hippos are overpopulated and whether culling is an effective control strategy for anthrax.

The DNPW said its suspension of the cull has been 'necessitated by events that have come with the culling activity that started in May'. It is now evaluating the situation and carrying out extensive consultations to find a way forward.

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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.