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Crocodile makes herself pregnant
Although it is the first recorded case in a crocodile, other vertebrates are known to reproduce through parthenogenesis.
First known case of parthenogenesis in a female crocodile.

Researchers have confirmed the first ever recorded case of a female crocodile laying a fertile egg through parthenogenesis.

A new study, published in Biology Letters, revealed that an American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in a zoo in Costa Rica laid an egg that contained a fully-formed foetus which was 99.9 per cent genetically identical to the mother.

The female crocodile had had no contact with a male for about 16 years.

The egg was part of a clutch of 14 eggs discovered by zookeepers in January 2018. Seven appeared to be fertile and were artificially incubated.

After the eggs failed to hatch, they were opened to to assess their contents. In one was a fully formed foetus. A DNA test revealed the genetic similarity with the mother.

This form of reproduction, vertebrate facultative parthenogenesis, was once considered rare. But advances in molecular genetics have made it easier to study and improved scientists understanding of the phenomenon.

Parthenogenesis has been reported in species such as Komodo dragons, Burmese pythons and domesticated turkeys.

Captive reptiles have previously been known to lay clutches of eggs, but they have generally been discarded as non-viable. There may therefore have been previous cases of captive crocodiles becoming pregnant in this way which went unnoticed.

Dr Warren Booth, who led the research, told the BBC: “We see it in sharks, birds, snakes and lizards and it is remarkably common and widespread.

“There was a big increase in reports of parthenogenesis when people started keeping pet snakes. But your average reptile keeper doesn't keep a crocodile.”

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Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course relaunched

News Story 1
 The VMD has announced dates for its next Veterinary Dispensary Manager Online Course.

The event will relaunch on Thursday, 23 October 2025 from 9am to 5pm and will be delivered through an interactive online session.

It is open for anyone involved in a veterinary dispensary role, whether they are new to the topic or looking for a refresh. Attendees will receive vital insights into the safe and compliant handling of veterinary medicines.

The course can be booked online for £495. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
New guidance for antibiotic use in rabbits

New best practice guidance on the responsible use of antibiotics in rabbits has been published by the BSAVA in collaboration with the Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWA&F).

The guidance is free and has been produced to help veterinary practitioners select the most appropriate antibiotic for rabbits. It covers active substance, dose and route of administration all of which are crucial factors when treating rabbits owing to the risk of enterotoxaemia.

For more information and to access the guide, visit the BSAVALibrary.