Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 30th January 2013
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
Championing amphibian and reptile species
Image: Nick Underdown of ScotLINK
Threatened species part of new conservation initiative

A new initiative, coordinated by the Scottish Environment LINK's wildlife forum, has provided Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) the opportunity to champion threatened amphibian and reptile species.

The initiative called Species Champions invites MSPs to choose from a list of species that are currently facing a threat to their survival, and allows them to help support that species from their parliamentary position.

The list, as suggested by conservationists Froglife, includes three amphibian species – the common toad, the natterjack toad and the great crested newt – and three reptile species – the adder, the common lizard, and the slow worm.

Within days of the list being published, all three amphibian species were chosen to be championed by a MSP, despite the initiative not having officially launched yet.

Choosing to champion the common toad, Glasgow MSP Drew Smith is already planning his involvement in a toad patrol, which is part of Froglife's Toads on Roads project.

Elaine Murray, MSP of Dumfries & Galloway, chose to champion the natterjack toad as its entire Scottish population resides in her constituency.

Championing the great crested newt, Central Scotland MSP John Wilson, said he has particular interest in environmental issues and the pressure housing and other developments have on urban wildlife, such as amphibians.

Rob Williams, Froglife's conservation coordinator for Scotland, commented: "Species Champions is a great idea and provides a direct link between conservation NGO’s [Non-Governmental Organisations] and Scottish Parliament.

"We hope by working closely with our MSP champions we can make a positive impact on the big decisions affecting our species. Froglife will also continue working hard to make sure the three reptile species find MSP champions before the initiative officially launches in spring.”

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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.