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Most ‘Spider-ific’ Street in the UK Unveiled
New research has revealed Luton’s ‘Selbourne Road’ as the UK’s most ‘spider-ific’ location – a street that’s been recognised to have the highest number of recorded spider sightings and individual species.

The research, carried out with Buglife - Invertebrate Conservation Trust and the Spider Recording Scheme, found almost 2300 recorded sightings with 143 separate species observed in Selbourne Road.

The research highlighted Luton in Bedfordshire, Hornby in West Lancashire, Washingborough in South Lincolnshire, Doddington in Kent and Reading University Campus as the top five locations across the UK for the highest recorded spider sightings. However, Luton’s ‘Selbourne Road’ was shown to be the hub of spider activity with almost four times more sightings than Hornby - the location with the next highest number of sightings.

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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.