Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 2nd January 2013
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
Bee testing takes place in Scotland
Health checks provide insight to valuable insect

Scotland's first ever bee health survey has taken place, to help inform future decisions relating to bee health.

The survey was conducted with the help of 10 per cent of Scotland's beekeepers, involving inspections and testing throughout the country.

Samples from 60 adult bees from each site were taken, as well as a questionnaire completed by each beekeeper and a floor sample tray from each apairy.

Results will provide a snapshot of the nation's bee health, and will help when making decisions about the treatment of diseases, pests and emerging threats to the insect.

The bee health check comes after a Honey Bee Health Strategy for Scotland, which was developed by the Scottish Government in order to track the country's bee population.

"Bees have a vital role to play in our ecosystem," said Environment Minister Paul Wheelhouse. "Not just because they produce honey and other products, but because of their valuable contribution to the pollination of many crops and wild plants.

"Bees can also be an early warning system for other problems which may be developing in our environment. That is why it is important that we monitor bee health and ensure our bees stay healthy, particularly as they are susceptible to a wide variety of threats, including pets and diseases."

Testing is currently taking place at the Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) labs.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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.