Question reference: S6W-09520
- Asked by: Colin Smyth, MSP for South Scotland, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 30 June 2022
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Current status: Answered by Mairi McAllan on 18 July 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what research is being carried out into the potential for resistance from use of veterinary medication on wild red grouse.
Answer
The Scottish Government is not aware of any research being carried out specifically on the potential for resistance from the use of veterinary medication in wild red grouse.
However, Moredun Research Institute are currently leading on a Strategic Research Programme project on ‘Strategies to promote sustainable parasite control and reduce anthelmintic usage’.
The aims of the research, which started in April this year, include:
• Investigate measures to minimise environmental impacts of anthelmintics whilst maintaining/boosting productivity and livestock efficiency
• Understand the tension between environmental benefits of livestock grazing vs impacts of treatment with anthelmintics
• Evaluate environmental implications of alternative strategies for animal health and welfare, specifically worms and fluke, and requirement for anthelmintic treatment