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New viper species discovered
Matilda's Horned Viper previously unknown.

Details about the discovery of a new species of viper found in a remote area of Tanzania during a 2010-2011 biological survey have been published by the Zootaxa journal. The exact location of the snake has not been published and will remain a secret to prevent the involvement of the illegal pet trade.

"The global trade in wildlife is huge, and a very significant part of that is the illegal trade in wild-caught amphibians and reptiles, for the pet trade. Snakes are particularly popular and a new snake arouses considerable interest," explains Tim Davenport, the Tanzania Country Director of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)
The snake has a dramatic black-and-yellow pattern, measures approximate 60 centimetres long, and has distinctive growths above the eyes which recall horns. A resemblance to the Usambara Bush Viper has been noted. The species has been dubbed Matilda's Horned Viper and has received the taxonomic name Atheris matildae in accordance with the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature.

The authors of the Zootaxa study believe that the viper will immediately be classified as a critically endangered species. The snake's natural habitat, which only constitutes an area of less than 100 square kilometres, has already been severely degraded by logging and the manufacture of charcoal. What little habitat is left is also declining in quality and thus viability. A small captive breeding colony to prevent complete extinction has already been established and the first few dozen offspring will be made available free of charge in the hope that a public effort can support the scientific program.

The species received its name from a five-year-old girl: Mr Davenport's daughter. "When we first discovered the snake, we kept one securely in a tank outside the office while we studied it. My daughter, then five years old, was fascinated and always insisted on helping us to feed it and look after it. It became known as Matilda's viper and the name stuck. We simply added the 'horned' later. She is very pleased but of course her younger sister wants a species now too! We will see what we can do..."

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.