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Deer put off mating by photographers
deer locking antlers
Stags compete for females by roaring, barking and clashing antlers to fend off their rivals.
Park wardens urge the public to steer clear of mating deer

Deer are being 'put off' mating by crowds of amateur photographers hoping to get a snap of rival stags locking antlers, according to Richmond Park wardens.

The park's assistant manager, Adam Curtis, told The Times: "I have seen 60 photographers circling a stag trying to mate."

During the rutting season, which takes place from September to November, stags compete for females by roaring, barking and clashing antlers to fend off their rivals.

While this makes for a striking photograph, members of the public are being urged to keep their distance, as crowds of people are cutting mating rituals short and causing females to scatter, forcing stags to use more energy running around to entice them back.

Mr Curtis said the number of deer at the park could even be put at risk.

Richmond Park has around 630 free-roaming red and fallow deer.

Members of the public are advised to keep at least 50 metres distance from the animals, never to touch or feed them, to avoid getting between two deer and never to photograph them at close range. Dog walkers are also advised to stay outside of the parks during rutting season.

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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.