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Study to further understanding of Scottish camelid sector
Keepers of llamas and alpacas in Scotland are being asked to share their views of the sector in a short survey.
Llamas and alpacas are becoming increasingly popular in the country. 

Researchers have launched a new initiative to further understanding of the camelid sector in Scotland.

Led by Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), the project comes in response to the growing popularity of llamas and alpacas, with many being bred in the country for specialist treks and other experiences. 

The project, funded by the Scottish Government as part of its Strategic Research Programme, will investigate how keepers in Scotland record information about their animals, including those they buy and sell. 

It also aims to gauge what matters to those who care for camelids, so their perspectives may be taken into account when making policy choices. As part of this, keepers of llamas and alpacas in Scotland are being asked to share their views of the sector in a short survey. 

SRUC veterinary epidemiologist Madeleine Henry said: “The camelid sector is growing in Scotland, but the current extent and the needs of our camelid population are less visible than those of other species kept on farms, crofts, paddocks and smallholdings.

“We are asking camelid keepers to tell us more about their animals, to allow better assessment of potential methods of future support for the sector in Scotland.”

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Reporting service for dead wild birds updated

News Story 1
 The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.

The new version allows those reporting a dead bird to drop a pin on a map when reporting the location. It also includes a wider range of wild bird species groups to select from when describing the bird.

The online service, which helps APHA to monitor the spread of diseases such as avian influenza, can be accessed here. 

Click here for more...
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NI chief vet urges bluetongue vigilance

Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer (CVO) has urged farmers to be vigilant for signs of bluetongue, after the Animal and Plant Health Agency warned there was a very high probability of further cases in Great Britain.

There have been 126 confirmed cases of bluetongue virus serotype 3 in England since November 2023, with no cases reported in Northern Ireland. The movement of live ruminants from Great Britain to Northern Ireland is currently suspended.

According to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the virus is most likely to enter Northern Ireland through infected animals or germplasm (semen or ova) being imported.

Brian Dooher, Northern Ireland's CVO, said: "Surveillance for this disease within Northern Ireland has been increased to assist with detection at the earliest opportunity which will facilitate more effective control measures."

Farmers should report any suspicions of the disease to their private veterinary practitioner, the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or their local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.