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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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VMD invites students to apply for EMS placement

News Story 1
 The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.

Students in their clinical years of study have until 28 February to apply for the placement, which takes place at the VMD's offices in Addlestone, Surrey, from 6-10 July 2026.

Through a mixture of lectures and workshops, the placement will explore how veterinary medicines are authorised, non-clinical career opportunities, and other important aspects of the VMD's work.  

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News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk