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RSPB warns against glittery ‘reindeer food’
‘Reindeer food’ containing substances such as oats and glitter are available to buy at this time of year.
Mixes containing plastics are harmful to wildlife

The RSPB is warning families not to scatter glitter or sequins outdoors for ‘Santa’s reindeers’ this Christmas, as they are harmful to wildlife and the environment.

‘Reindeer food’ containing substances such as oats and glitter are available to buy at this time of year, so that children can scatter it on the lawn on Christmas Eve.

However, the RSPB is urging the public not to use mixes containing glitter or sequins, as anything made from plastic causes stomach problems for most animals if eaten, as well as being harmful to the environment.

Cake sprinkles or edible glitter should also be avoided as they often contain e-numbers.

Instead, the charity is recommending a nature-friendly recipe that can be safely eaten by birds. RSPB recommends mixing up raw porridge oats, sunflower seeds and nyjer seeds. For colour, blueberries or apple can be added.

Sprinkle into a tray or bowl on Christmas Eve for a festive treat for reindeer (and birds).

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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

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Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.