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Bubble machine is a hit with zoo’s penguins
The bubble machine is a "firm favourite" with penguins, said zoo keeper Lorna Moffat.
Colony filmed chasing and popping bubbles 

Edinburgh Zoo’s penguin colony has been caught on camera playing with their new bubble machine on Penguin Awareness Day (20 January).

The colony of more than 130 birds can be seen waddling around their enclosure, chasing after the bubbles and trying to pop them.

Penguin keeper Lorna Moffat said the colony “enjoy lots of different types of enrichment, from their water slide to their floating platforms” but the bubble machine is a “firm favourite”.

It was given to the zoo as a Christmas present via its Amazon wishlist for the animals.

“All three of our penguin species loved playing with the bubbles, especially our youngest rockhopper chick who was taking part for the first time,” Lorna added.

RZSS Edinburgh Zoo is home to Europe’s largest outdoor penguin pool. It plays an important role in penguin conservation around the globe through Project Pinnamin, which is a collaboration between RZSS, the British Antarctic Survey, RSPB, Tristan Conservation and the Government of South Africa.

Together, they are spearheading research into the endangered northern rockhopper and the factors affecting its population numbers on Tristan da Cunha, in the South Atlantic Ocean.

Image © RZSS/Siân Addison.
 

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Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
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RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.