The recently released statistics showed a total of 254,453 animals were used in research, testing and teaching in 2016, up 13 per cent.
SCOOP: ‘The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has released the latest figures for the use of animals in research, testing and teaching. The 2016 statistics reflect the number of animals used in studies that were completed during the year and reported to MPI. MPI Manager of Animal Welfare, Dr. Kate Littin says the recently released statistics showed a total of 254,453 animals were used in research, testing and teaching in 2016, up 13 per cent on the record low achieved in 2015.
“The increase for 2016 is mainly due to more livestock used for veterinary research, testing and teaching,” says Dr. Littin… Livestock accounted for almost 65 per cent of the animals used, reflecting the agricultural nature of much of New Zealand’s research, testing and teaching. Cattle were the most commonly reported species making up 41 per cent of the total number, followed by sheep at 19 per cent, mice at 13 per cent and fish at 8 per cent’. SOURCE…
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