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Buff-tailed bumblebee crowned UK's favourite insect
Bumblebee
The poll was launched by the RSB to raise the profile of the insect population which is threatened as a result of loss of habitat, climate change and pollution.
Secured victory with over 40 per cent of votes

The buff-tailed bumblebee is the UK's favourite insect, according to a nationwide poll organised by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).

The winner secured victory with over 40 per cent of the 7,500 votes, beating the seven spot ladybird and the emperor dragonfly in second and third place respectively.

The largest of the bee species, the buff-tailed bumblebee is the first that you are likely to see in your garden in the summer.
Its name refers to the queen bees golden-coloured tail.

Speaking to the Guardian, RSB member Dr Rebecca Nesbit put the bees popularity down to its hard work, visibility and gentle sound:

"Wasps interrupt your picnic, but there is something quite appealing about sitting in your hard and seeing a bumblebee hard at work. It's very noticeable in gardens and people are more aware of the valuable role bees play for us and the challenges they face at the moment."

The poll was launched by the RSB to raise the profile of the insect population which is threatened as a result of loss of habitat, climate change and pollution.

"When lots of people think of conservation they think of pandas and the large species that need our help, but there are lots of people who do understand how important insects are for our lives," Rebecca added.

"Many crops and wild flowers alike depend on bumblebees for pollination, They contribute to our economy, our countryside and the food we eat."

The RBS hope that people will get behind the bees by planting "bee-friendly" plants, avoiding mowing flowers until late summer and calling on MPs to create a national programme to monitor numbers.

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Greyhound Board announces change to vaccination guidance

News Story 1
 The Greyhound Board of Great Britain has published new vaccination guidance, with all greyhounds registered from 1 January, 2027 required to have the L4 leptospirosis vaccination, rather than L2.

The change comes in response to the reduced availability of the 'L2' Leptospirosis vaccine across the UK, and aims to support best biosecurity practice across the racing greyhound population.

GBGB veterinary director Simon Gower, said "While rare, Leptospirosis is a serious infectious disease that can affect both dogs and humans, so it is vital that we offer our greyhounds the broadest possible protection.  

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News Shorts
Free webinar explores congenital heart disease in dogs

A free webinar is to provide veterinary professionals, dog breeders and pet owners an new insights into congenital heart disease.

Chris Linney, a cardiology specialist and Veterinary Cardiovascular Society (VSC) member, will present the webinar from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Wednesday, 12 November.

Dr Linney will explore the types, causes and clinical presentation of congenital heart conditions. This will include diagnostic approaches, treatment pathways and emerging research opportunities.

The session is the third to be organised by The Kennel Club, with the VCS, following an introductory webinar and a talk on acquired heart disease. Dr Linney's webinar consists of a one-hour presentation, followed by a 30-minute question and answer session.

Dr Linney said: "This webinar will be an opportunity to deepen understanding - not just of the diseases themselves, but of how breeders, vets and owners can work together to support affected dogs and improve outcomes for future generations."

Click here to register for the webinar.