Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel
Surveying Birmingham's Bird Life

Common species of bird were found in all areas.
With the help of the RSPB, Birmingham University and hundreds of volunteers, Birmingham Parks have conducted a region-wide bird survey, the first major survey of biodiversity in streams and rivers within Birmingham, to try and map the populations of local wetland bird life.

The survey was conducted over two years and has investigated over 50kms of stream across Birmingham and recovered more than 10,000 individual bird records.

The survey revealed surprise inclusions, including a red kite, the second only to be found in Birmingham, and a little ringed plover, both found around Harborne Reservoir. The survey also recorded numerous ring-necked parakeets in Perry Park. Common species of bird were found in all areas, including woodpigeon, blackbird, magpie, great tit, wren, carrion crow, blue tit and robin. Other birds found were the chiffchaff, mallard, moorhen, grey heron, Canadian goose, coot, great crested grebe, tufted duck, cormorant, mute swan and little grebe.

The result of this survey is the capturing of new and important data for mapping bird populations in Birmingham. The findings now show a clear relationship between bird and habitat type, with some surprises, such as how common and widespread song thrush are and increasing numbers of records of grey heron and grey wagtail, both indications of improving water quality.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Vets launch new podcast for pet owners

News Story 1
 Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.

The venture, called Vets Talking Pets, provides advice and information on a range of topics, including how to select a suitable pet, where to obtain them and how to get the best out of your vet. Maggie and Vanessa will also discuss sensitive subjects, including end-of-life care, raw food diets and the cost of veterinary care.

The podcast can be found on all the usual podcast sites, including Podbean, Apple, Amazon Music and YouTube. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS Regional Question Time heads to Edinburgh

The RCVS is to bring its Regional Question Time (RQT) to Edinburgh for 2026.

The event will take place at Novotel Edinburgh Park in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 20 May 2026.

It will begin with supper and drinks at 6.30pm, with an evening programme from 7.30pm. This will start with an update on RCVS' activities, followed by questions and answers with representatives.

RCVS is encouraging an 'open dialogue', in which queries can be raised in a friendly, informal environment.

While discussions are expected to be audience-led, the RQT is expected address major issues including the VSA, the CMA's remedy package and the VN Vision project.

Tim Parkin, RCVS president, said: "It's an important time for the professions, and I'm looking forward to meeting colleagues in Scotland as we navigate this period of change together so we can come out stronger."

Tickets can be booked here.