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Governments back call to strengthen protection for Asian elephants
An undercover investigation  revealed that elephant skin is being turned into powder for medical conditions and beads for jewellery.
Investigation exposes emerging trade in Asian elephant skin

International governments have backed a call to strengthen laws that will lead to the better protection of Asian elephants.

Representatives of Born Free and Elephant Family informed delegates at a meeting of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) of an emerging illegal trade in Asian elephant skin.

An undercover investigation by Elephant Family in Myanmar revealed that elephant skin is being turned into powder for medical conditions and beads for jewellery and sold through online Chinese language forums.

Speaking on behalf of Asian elephants in Sri Lanka, Mr Ranjan Marasinghe, head of enforcement of the Department of Wildlife Conservation said: “As a range state we are aware of the multiple threats faced by Asian elephants and are concerned that the skin issue will expand to all range states if not stopped.”

The United States and the European Union were given approval for amendments to existing laws that protect Asian elephants, including a requirement for investigations into illegal trade and improved reporting on implementation.

“This is a big step forward for Asian elephants since the discussion at CITES is often dominated by African elephant ivory trade,” said Elephant Family’s conservation programme manager Caitlin Melidonis. “Our investigations helped shape the outcome of this important meeting but there is more to be done.

“Our job now is to ensure that the decisions outlined on paper translate to protection in the field.”

Speaking on behalf of Born Free Foundation, Gabriel Fava, said: “These important developments must lead to better cooperation and coordination across range States and help to identify gaps in capacity. We look forward to supporting countries to address those needs and ensure a sustained enforcement response against illegal trade”. 

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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.