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Factory waste disposal attracts dolphins
Dolphins learn to take advantage of improved feeding prospects

A research project by a marine biology student at Swansea University has revealed that a school of at least 300 bottlenose dolphins has learned to take advantage of licensed discharges at a seafood processing factory in New Quay, Ceredigion.

Quay Fresh and Frozen Foods Ltd is licensed to discharge the remains of the whelks it processes into the sea, which attracts a variety of fish which feed on them. The dolphins feed on these fish in turn and the shallow water of the area allows younger dolphins, which are unable to dive as deeply as their elders, to feed too.

Commenting, Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (CBMWC) Manager Steve Hartley said that "We see adults and juveniles in this area foraging and feeding. Wherever the mother is, she'll be teaching her pup social and feeding strategies in the same way a human mother would teach her children how to survive day to day."

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.