Rabbit numbers on the rise says LHPA
With rabbit numbers on the rise across most of the state Livestock Health and Pest Authorities are working with landholders to step up control activities before they reach plague proportions.
Livestock Health and Pest Authority State Management Council Pest Animal Manager, Tim Seears, said conditions were favourable for rabbit breeding with reasonable rainfall in some areas and a good supply of green feed.
“Landholders are urged to monitor rabbit numbers on their property and report any significant rises or fluctuations to their local Livestock Health and Pest Authority.
“They are also encouraged to contact their local authority to find out about group control programs and how rangers and landholders are working together to implement consistent and widespread activities.
“Our rangers are also available to come out and assess your property and advise the most effective methods and locations for rabbit control.
“Control methods include baiting with 1080 and pindone products, fumigation, harbour destruction and warren ripping.
“Landholders should not rely on biological controls such as myxomatosis and Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease virus (RHD) alone as there appears to be increasing levels of resistance.
“Baiting is the most common and successful control method to knock down high concentrations of rabbits and also allows for other follow-up methods to be effective.
“1080 and pindone products are available from your local Livestock Health and Pest Authority and landholders are reminded that they must hold a current AQF3 chemical handling accreditation and competency card to be issued with 1080 baits.
“Fumigation is particularly effective in places such as rocky outcrops, along fences and around tree where access is limited.
“Rangers can also assist landholders with fumigation programs on their own land and demonstrate the safe and effective use of fumigants.
“Landholders should also concentrate on harbour destruction such as warren ripping and the removal of blackberries, briars, old logs and heaps where rabbits are likely to inhabit,” Tim Seears said.
For further information about rabbit control and how to become involved in group baiting programs contact your local Livestock Health and Pest Authority office or visit www.lhpa.org.au
MEDIA CONTACT: Sarah McGregor 6391 3242