What types of animals are involved in research?

The University of St Andrews carries out research with animals under the Animal (Scientific Procedures) Act (ASPA), 1986. Find out more about the purpose of research involving animals.

In 2020, most of these animals were rodents, predominantly mice (73.4%), and birds (11.4%).  Our research also involves rats, frogs, fish, and seals.  The information provided below is about the animals that were involved in regulated procedures. 

However, some research performed by our researchers involves studying these or other animals in their natural environment or in zoos. 

We apply the same standards regardless of whether our researchers are working with animals in an aquarium, a laboratory, or involved with conservation work in the field.  In addition, ethical approval may still be required for research using videos and data previously collected of animals.