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Nearly 50 birds fall from the sky in Boston
grackle
Nearly 50 grackle-type birds were seen falling from the sky.
Thirty-two birds and one cat die from unknown cause

Health officials are investigating after 47 birds fell out of the sky in the Dorchester neighbourhood of Boston.

The Animal League of Boston (ARL) was called out to Bakersfield Street on September 8 as dozens of birds were seen falling from the sky. A resident's cat also received emergency treatment but sadly could not be saved.

In total, 47 grackle-type birds were observed falling to the ground, thrashing, unable to fly or completely unresponsive.

A dozen of the birds were found dead at the scene, eight passed away shortly after rescue and 12 had to be humanely euthanised. Fifteen birds remain in good condition and are being sent to Tufts Wildlife Center in Grafton, Massachusetts, for further treatment.

Pet owners are being urged to be cautious while walking their dogs and keep animals away from the area.

ARL is working with Boston health officials to help determine the cause of the incident. According to local media, it is currently uncertain whether the deaths were intentional, or caused by environmental poisoning or a virus.

Julia Gunn from the Boston Public Health Commission told WCVB there is no indication of a threat to humans at this stage.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

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News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.