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Great snakes!
Credit: University of Florida photo by Kristen Grace/Florida Museum of Natural History
Record-breaking Burmese python captured

The largest snake found in Florida has been captured, measuring in at a whopping 17-foot-7-inches long and weighing a colossal 164.5 pounds. When researchers at the University of Florida examined the snake, it was found to contain 87 eggs - breaking another state record.

The snake was first caught in March and fitted with radio transmitters, whereupon it was released back into the wild to serve as what scientists call a 'Judas snake', so researchers could track the python to learn more about its breeding ground.

Burmese pythons are native to Southern Asia and arrived in the U.S. 30 years ago as part of the exotic pet industry. Although not poisonous, they are powerful enough to kill humans by suffocating them.

Kenneth Kyrsko, Floria Museum herpetology collection manager, described the snake as "monstrous, about a foot wide."

He added: "A 17.5-foot snake could eat anything it wants," Krysko said. "By learning what this animal has been eating and its reproductive status, it will hopefully give us insight into how to potentially manage other wild Burmese pythons in the future. It also highlights the actual problem, which is invasive species."

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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
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.