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Research sheds light on Finch personality
Photo: Nigel Jacques
Scientists from RVC and Liverpool reveal research

The personality of a Gouldian Finch differs according to its head colour, researchers from Liverpool John Moores University and the Royal Veterinary College have revealed.

A research team investigated the "highly sociable" Australian birds through a series of behavioural tests to better comprehend their bright appearance. Red-headed finches were shown to be more aggressive, while those with black heads were bolder and took more risks.

Gouldian finches are found in open, subtropical woodland and are renowned for their colourful plumage. The majority have either red or black heads, and a small number have yellow.

Lead researcher Leah Williams commented: "Our idea is that the colour signals their behavioural tactics."

She added: "The next step is to find out which birds associate with which. Do reds hang our with blacks and do they do better for that?" 

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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.