Rabbit-proof fencing
Rabbit-proof fences can be effective in preventing animals moving into or re-infesting an area. Well-maintained fences can provide a permanent solution to rabbit problems. Fencing can also be used to contain rabbits in an area where they can be more efficiently poisoned.
Myxomatosis and Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD)
These viruses have been introduced to help reduce rabbit numbers, but may be difficult to manipulate. Following up immediately with other control methods can enhance their benefits. RHD was previously known as calicivirus or rabbit calicivirus disease (RCD).
In March 2017 there was a national release of a Korean strain of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus, known as RHDV1 K5 .This is the first time in 20 years that a new rabbit biocontrol agent has been released into Australia. The release of this new rabbit virus strain is part of a 20 year national biocontrol plan for rabbits.
RHDV1 K5 is now available as a commercial product to authorised users. The supply and use of RHDV1 K5 in WA to authorised users was enabled under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Regulations Amendment 2017 (Government Gazette Friday, 3 February 2017). Under the regulations, anyone who will be handling and mixing the liquid suspension virus must complete on-line training to become authorised users of RHDV. RHDV1-K5 Authorisation Training is available from DPIRD’s Client Online Training website.
Coordinated, landscape scale release of rabbit biological control viruses will maximise effectiveness and produce greater results than patchy, individual landholder releases. DPIRD recommends land managers contact their local biosecurity group before applying for the virus to coordinate a release or to determine if a release has already occurred within their area. Biosecurity group contact details are available within the online RHDV1 K5 training package.
Other methods
Shooting and trapping can be useful additional tools when very few rabbits are present. These methods should be used legally and humanely.
Summary of options for rabbit control
| Options | When to use | Cost | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1080 baiting | Late summer. | Most cost-effective | Large areas covered quickly. Foxes killed by eating poisoned rabbits. | No effective antidote. |
| Pindone | Best late summer. | Moderate cost. | Less hazard to domestic | Must not be used in presence of some native animals. |
| Warren | Best late summer. | Labour-intensive. | Useful if rabbits are | Cannot be used where rabbits live above ground or where warrens cannot be sealed. |
| Warren ripping | Summer for sandy | Labour-intensive. | Good for large paddock | Can cause soil erosion. |
| Harbourage | Before planting or seeding. | Labour-intensive. | Good follow-up method. | Cannot be used in all situations (e.g. native vegetation). |
| Rabbit-proof | Before planting or seeding. | Very labour-intensive. | Long-term effect, stops | Needs regular checking. |
| Myxomatosis | Naturally spread. | No cost. | Effective in reducing numbers before other controls are used. | Timing and effectiveness unpredictable. |
| Shooting and trapping | Best late summer | Very labour intensive | Must be used with other | Only appropriate for low rabbit numbers. Trapping and shooting not suitable in built-up areas. |
Further information
For further information on rabbits and rabbit control, search our website, or contact the Pest and Disease Information Service.