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Wild rabbits harming iconic Storr
Image - Alan Rolfe
Population control suggested as response

Wild rabbits believed to have been first introduced to the Isle of Skye in the Nineteenth Century have been blamed for erosion of the Trotternish Ridge in the iconic Storr rock formation (pictured). It is understood that the population has thrived on the upland plants and grasses that grow on the Ridge and enjoy the designations of Site of Special Scientific Interest and Special Area of Conservation. Sheep grazing has also been identified as a factor in the erosion.

A scientific team from the Macaulay Institute (since amalgamated with the Scottish Crop Research Institute to form the James Hutton Institute) has monitored the area on a long term basis to evaluate the extent of the erosion. Their research concluded that a reduction in the number of sheep, which may come about naturally due to other factors, would reduce erosion but the greater damage caused by rabbits has prompted a recommendation in favour of intervention in the form of population control.

The scientific team's report to Scottish National Heritage acknowledges that "It is recognised that controlling rabbit numbers could be an expensive exercise which would require an ongoing commitment of manpower and finance. The possible benefits, in relation to the costs of rabbit control on a scale that would achieve noticeable benefits therefore require greater consideration before further action is taken."

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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
RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."