Rabbits
European rabbits are declared pests of agriculture in Western Australia under the Biosecurity and Agriculture Management Act 2007.
They cause damage to gardens, crops, native bushland and even infrastructure by undermining buildings and sheds.
To reduce the impact of rabbits on nature reserves, parks, gardens and public spaces, the Shire undertakes rabbit control twice a year in late Spring and Autumn when conditions are most suitable.
How the Shire controls rabbits
The Shire engages licensed pest control technicians to carry out rabbit control using RHDV (Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus), also known as Calicivirus. This biological control is safe for people, pets (other than rabbits) and native wildlife. Bait stations containing carrots and oats are placed in selected Shire-managed reserves, with timing carefully planned to ensure the virus is most effective.
Rabbit control may occur near residential areas. If you have pet rabbits, we recommend taking precautions to protect them from Calicivirus:
• Keep rabbits in insect-proof enclosures or indoors
• Vaccinate your rabbits
• Avoid contact with unfamiliar rabbits
• Regularly disinfect rabbit enclosures
What you can do at home
The Shire is limited to controlling rabbits only on Shire-managed land. The best results happen when landholders and neighbours also take action. Here are a few simple things you can do:
• Remove piles of wood, rocks or building materials that provide shelter
• Use rabbit-proof fencing around gardens and sheds
• Coordinate with neighbours for group control
• Log rabbit sightings on the FeralScan App to help build a local picture
• Contact DPIRD or a local pest control contractor for advice
Information on control options is available on DPIRD’s website, or by contacting DPIRD on 08 9368 3080 or [email protected].
Working together
Some rural-residential areas have formed local groups to coordinate rabbit control at the same time, which is a fantastic initiative. If the Shire is aware of these efforts, we may be able to contribute by funding control on nearby Shire-managed reserves.
If you’re undertaking rabbit control on your property or interested in coordinating efforts, we’d love to hear from you.
Email: [email protected]
For more information about the impact of rabbits on agriculture and the environment, visit the PestSmart website.