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Research sheds light on Finch personality
Photo: Nigel Jacques
Scientists from RVC and Liverpool reveal research

The personality of a Gouldian Finch differs according to its head colour, researchers from Liverpool John Moores University and the Royal Veterinary College have revealed.

A research team investigated the "highly sociable" Australian birds through a series of behavioural tests to better comprehend their bright appearance. Red-headed finches were shown to be more aggressive, while those with black heads were bolder and took more risks.

Gouldian finches are found in open, subtropical woodland and are renowned for their colourful plumage. The majority have either red or black heads, and a small number have yellow.

Lead researcher Leah Williams commented: "Our idea is that the colour signals their behavioural tactics."

She added: "The next step is to find out which birds associate with which. Do reds hang our with blacks and do they do better for that?" 

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Submissions open for BSAVA Clinical Research Abstracts 2026

News Story 1
 The BSAVA has opened submissions for the BSAVA Clinical Research Abstracts 2026.

It is an opportunity for applicants to present new research on any veterinary subject, such as the preliminary results of a study, discussion of a new technique or a description of an interesting case.

They must be based on high-quality clinical research conducted in industry, practice or academia, and summarised in 250 words.

Applications are welcome from vets, vet nurses, practice managers, and students.

Submissions are open until 6 March 2026. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk