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Monkey Twins Born
Tic and Tac make father Minty proud.
Twin silvery marmosets born at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo have been named Tic and Tac after the famous mint sweets and join a family that’s truly “minted”.

The tiny pair were born to mum Humbug and dad Minty and are being looked after by the proud parents and sister Murray.
 
Keepers chose the minty names due to the brilliant silvery white colouring of the monkeys, who originate from the South American Rainforests. The pair were born two months ago but are only now clearly visible to visitors who can see them as they take their first leaps away from mum and dad in their indoor and outdoor quarters, to the right of the otter pond.

The pair were born two months ago but are only now clearly visible to visitors
The marmosets were only 5cms (2ins) in size when born and when fully grown will reach about 20cms (8ins) long, minus their tails. Keeper Carole Day said bringing up the pair is a family affair.


The marmoset are attracting much attention.
“The are a close-knit group and both dad and mum take their fair share of feeding and carrying and so does big sister as it is all part of her training for when she is a mum herself,” she said.

“The twins are already getting used to outdoors as they are carried out regularly by the family. You can even hear them screech as they are left out on a branch, but this is all part of growing up.”

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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.