LHPA gears up to curb rabbit increase
Wild rabbits are on the increase in the Wellington district and rangers with the Central West Livestock Health and Pest Authority are preparing to help landholders tackle the pest.
Rangers are holding a field day on Thursday 28 April starting at 9.30am (RSVP by Wednesday 27 April) where participants will hear information and see demonstrations on rabbit control methods at two sites near Lake Burrendong.
Scott Sullivan, Central West LHPA ranger, says there has been a rapid build up around the district, particularly in and around the State Recreation Park at Lake Burrendong and associated State Water controlled land.
"Rabbits are both a major agricultural and environmental problem and can cause significant economic losses," Mr Sullivan said.
"We are seeing a build up in numbers on farming land and public land, which has the potential to continue if control is not undertaken now.
"The field day will be open to all and we particularly encourage anyone with a rabbit problem to attend."
Mr Sullivan said a co-operative community driven approach is needed if we are to have an impact on rabbit numbers.
"When neighbours get together and work collaboratively on rabbit control is when the best results are seen," he said.
"Baiting with carrot or oats treated with Pindone is the most effective way to quickly reduce numbers in closely settled areas and around townships. It is best done at a time when rabbits are not breeding and when green feed is in short supply.
"There are several things, however, that landholders affected by rabbits can do at any time to reduce rabbit numbers and minimise any damage they may cause. These include:
- warren fumigation and destruction or ripping,
- harbour removal or destruction,
- exclusion from buildings and gardens, and
- lawful trapping and shooting."
Rabbits are a declared pest under the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998. The occupiers and managers of both private and public land have a legal requirement to implement control measures to suppress rabbits. The LHPAs have the responsibility to enforce the Act.
The field day is being jointly funded by the LHPA and the Central West Catchment Management Authority under the Recovery of Threatened Species and Communities program. For more information on the field day or to RSVP contact Scott Sullivan on 6366 8505 or 0428 710 001.
Media contact: Kylie Dunn 6391 3720 / 0428 465 378