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New insect recorded in Shropshire
The bug was discovered by a group of volunteer wildlife enthusiasts.
Fallen's Leatherbug identified in the area for the first time. 

A new species of insect has been identified at a nature reserve in Shropshire, as reported by BBC News.

The Fallen's Leatherbug, identifiable by the v-shape caused by two rows of pale spines on the pronotum, is typically found in coastal sand dunes between Norfolk and South Wales. 

It is the first time the species has been recorded in the area, and was found at the Eardington Nature Reserve near Bridgnorth.

The group who made the discovery, the Joy of Wildlife group, is made up of volunteer wildlife enthusiasts who were undertaking surveys at the time. 

One member of the group, Keith Fowler, told BBC News: "How did it make the hop to Eardington? I have no idea, but they do have wings.

"Let us hope several made the journey and a colony becomes established."

The Fallen's Leatherbug, known scientifically as Arenocoris falleni, has also been found in the East Anglian Brecks, and occasionally inland in gravel pits and sandy habitats. 

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Applications open for MMI research grants

News Story 1
 RCVS' Mind Matters Initiative (MMI) has launched round two of its veterinary mental health research grants.

Researchers have until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 28 May 2025 to apply for a grant for research which reflects MMI's 2025 focus areas.

Only one Impact Grant was awarded last year, and so this year there are two Discovery Grants and one Impact Grants available. Each Discovery Grant is worth £5,000 and the Impact Grant is worth £15,000.

For more information or to apply, email researchgrants@rcvs.org.uk to contact the MMI team.

 

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News Shorts
BBC Radio 4 documentary addresses corporate fees

BBC Radio 4's File on 4 Investigates has released a documentary exploring how corporate-owned veterinary practices may be inflating bills to increase profit.

Released on 15 April, 'What's Happening To Your Vet Bills?' revealed the policies which many corporate groups have in place to increase their profits. This included targets and upgrades which veterinary teams are tasked with meeting on a regular basis.

It also features Anrich Vets, an independently-owned practice based in Wigan. Following the case of Staffordshire terrier Benjy, who is diagnosed with a tumour, the documentary shares how the team were able to offer contextualised care and advice to make the procedure as affordable as possible for his owners.

The documentary can be heard on demand on BBC iPlayer.