Work with your neighbours on rabbit problem

SMALL FARMS NETWORK - SUMMER 2020-21 - PESTS & WEEDS

By John Nolan
Regional Pest Animal Coordinator
P: 03 5881 9921 | M: 0428 629 278 | E: john.p.nolan@lls.nsw.gov.au

Do you have a rabbit problem in your area? A coordinated approach with your neighbours is an effective way to control this pest.

Rabbits are one of the biggest environmental and economic pests in Australia. They not only target large pastoral holdings but also small properties where conditions suit. It only takes one rabbit per hectare to prevent the successful regeneration of some of our common trees and shrubs.

Rabbits are highly destructive animals that build complex warren networks several metres under the ground. In the process, they can damage infrastructure such as buildings, fences and roads.

Rabbits can breed from 16 weeks of age and can produce five or more litters each year. They can survive in many landforms and currently occupy 70 per cent of Australia’s mainland and islands.

If you live on a small rural holding and have a rabbit problem, the best approach is to develop a coordinated rabbit management program with your neighbours, where possible. Rabbits usually live in certain land types such as sandy / loamy soils. This could be in the form of a sandhill or ridge, which runs through many neighbouring properties. To achieve a good result, a coordinated approach to pest control will work best.

Talk to your neighbours about working on the issue together, then contact your Local Land Services biosecurity officer to discuss rabbit management options. They can assist you with technical advice and support.

To contact our Invasive Species team, call our offices: Albury (02) 6051 2200, Deniliquin 03 5881 9900 or Jerilderie 03 5886 2100.

Murray Local Land Services biosecurity officer Stephen Wilson talks to residents of Splitters Creek about rabbit control options.