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Skomer Island’s seals killed in recent storms
Skomer Island is an important breeding ground for the Atlantic grey seal.

Wildlife Trust launches fundraising appeal

Recent storms have killed more than two-thirds of seal pups living on Pembrokeshire’s Skomer Island.

According to a report by BBC News, storms Ophelia and Brian also wiped out 90 seal pups living on nearby Ramsey Island.

Lizzie Wilberforce, conservation manager for Skomer said: "These storms were the strongest since 1987 and unfortunately, violent storms like these are becoming more common as our islands are exposed and vulnerable to severe weather.

"It is vital that we start to put protocols in place to better deal with the potential impacts, on both the islands' wildlife and infrastructure."

Skomer Island is owned by The Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales and is an important breeding ground for the Atlantic grey seal. The Trust is now aiming to raise at least £25,000 to monitor the impact on wildlife, repair the damage, and storm-proof the islands for the future.

For more information visit: www.welshwildlife.org/Islands-storm-Appeal

Image (C) Oliver Dixon

 

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.