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Study suggests giraffe are 'socially complex'
The study tested two hypotheses, firstly, that giraffe have a complex cooperative social system, and secondly, that giraffe form matrilineal societies.
Traditionally, the species were thought to have little or no social structure.

Giraffes are a socially complex species, a study by scientists at the University of Bristol has found.

In a paper published recently in the Mammal Review journal, Zoe Muller, from Bristol's School of Biological Sciences, has suggested that giraffes spend up to 30 per cent of their lives in a post-reproductive state.

Muller suggests that this is comparable to other species who spend a similar amount of time in a post-reproductive state, such as elephants and killer whales, both of whom have highly complex social structures and cooperative care. 

The 'Grandmother hypothesis', which suggests that female mammals live long past menopause in order to help raise future generations of offspring, is suggested by the researchers here to function in the same manner as the presence of post-reproductive adult female giraffes. This supports Muller's proposal that giraffes are likely to engage in cooperative parenting along matrillines.

Muller commented on the importance of the study: It is baffling to me that such a large, iconic and charismatic African species has been understudied for so long. This paper collates all the evidence to suggest that giraffes are actually a highly complex social species, with intricate and high-functioning social systems, potentially comparable to elephants, cetaceans and chimpanzees.

“Recognising that giraffes have a complex cooperative social system and live in matrilineal societies will further our understanding of their behavioural ecology and conservation needs.

“Conservation measures will be more successful if we have an accurate understanding of the species’ behavioural ecology. If we view giraffes as a highly socially complex species, this also raises their 'status' towards being a more complex and intelligent mammal that is increasingly worthy of protection.”

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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.