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Beavers released into the Forest of Dean
Plans to reintroduce the beavers to the Forest of Dean were announced by The Forestry Commission in March 2017.
Move expected to improve biodiversity and prevent flooding

Defra has confirmed the release of two Eurasian beavers in the Forest of Dean, 400 years after the species was driven to extinction.

The move is expected to improve biodiversity and reduce the risk of flooding in the village of Lydbrook.

Beavers have a key role in the creation of habitats of other plant, insect and mammals species. By creating dams and by felling trees, it is hoped the beavers will stem the flow of water in the Greathough Brook and reduce the risk of flash flooding.
 
Environment secretary Michael Gove who attended the release said: “The beaver has a special place in English heritage and the Forest of Dean. This release is a fantastic opportunity to develop our understanding of the potential impacts of reintroductions and help this iconic species, 400 years after it was driven to extinction.

“The community of Lydbrook has shown tremendous support for this scheme and the beavers will be a welcome addition to local wildlife.”

Plans to reintroduce the beavers to the Forest of Dean were announced by The Forestry Commission in March 2017. Natural England then granted the Forestry Commission a license to release beavers into a carefully chosen and secure site.

“Beavers are natural habitat engineers, restoring complex wetland habitats and providing habitat for declining species whilst slowing the flow of water downstream,” said Rebecca Wilson head of planning at the Forestry Commission.

 “We are delighted to welcome beavers to the Forest of Dean and are keen to observe the many benefits they will bring to both local communities and the wider Forest of Dean environment.”

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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.