New Hendra variant found in Newcastle

A seven-year-old unvaccinated Clydesdale from the Newcastle area has been euthanased following confirmation of a variant Hendra virus strain, the NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) reports.  The new variant (Hendra virus Genotype 2/HeV-g2) and most southern case of Hendra recorded was confirmed in early October by testing at the DPI’s Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute […]

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Predicting trends in live reptile smuggling

The illegal wildlife trade has generally focused on species such as rhinos, elephants, and pangolins which are trafficked and killed for their use in traditional medicines, or for other consumptive practices, but the global trade in live animals is also considerable, and reptile species are particularly popular. The results of a study led by researchers […]

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Australian frog species at risk of extinction

Due to their sensitivity to changing environmental and climate conditions frogs are considered one of the bellwether species by many scientists and ecologists, and a recently published study in Pacific Conservation Biology has identified 26 of Australia’s frogs are at the greatest risk of extinction unless urgent management and conservation measures are established. The research […]

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AVA fields increased Ivermectin queries

AThe AVA has been receiving enquiries from journalists about whether vets are being asked for Ivermectin for use as a COVID-19 treatment/prevention in humans, and whether there are concerns about supply of the drug. The AVA issued a media release which said Ivermectin is primarily used in treating parasites in large animals, and these preparations […]

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Sumatran sanctuary reaches funding goal

The Ellis Park animal sanctuary has reached its funding goal for building materials, having received 65,300 Euros (more than $100,000 AUD) in donations.  The Sumatran sanctuary is a ‘forever home’ for animals with injuries and trauma, and its recent fundraising campaign involved auctioning of memorabilia from musician and park co-founder Warren Ellis.  Ellis Park has […]

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