Rabbit control program on Shire-managed reserves

Rabbit control program on Shire-managed reserves

The Shire has appointed licensed pest controller Alpha Pest Animal Solutions to undertake rabbit control on Shire-managed reserves. Rabbits are causing structural damage by undermining buildings, impacting adjoining properties and creating safety hazards on playing fields. Pest control for rabbits uses the release of RHD K5 Calicivirus distributed in carrots. The Calicivirus only affects rabbits and hares. Native wildlife, humans and domestic pets (other than rabbits) are not impacted by the virus.
 
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is the government agency responsible for regulating the control of pest animals in WA, including rabbits. Information on rabbit control options can be found on the DPIRD website (Rabbit control options | Agriculture and Food), or from the Centre for Invasive Species Solutions pestSMART website (European rabbits - PestSmart). 
 
Rabbit control has already been undertaken in Augusta and Molloy Island, with further control proposed for Gracetown, Margaret River, Cowaramup and Witchcliffe between 9th – 11th April. The program targets the following Shire reserves:

•  Gracetown: Reserves R37456 & R27618
• Cowaramup: R48838 Curtis Street, R44339 Bottrell Street, and Wadandi Track south of Cowaramup (R47049)
•  Margaret River: R39689 (Wadandi Track Railway/Mann Street)
• Witchcliffe: Reserves west of Bussell Highway – Wadandi Track (R47049), R22815 Bussell Highway, and R35113 Redgate Road
• Augusta: Albany Terrace/Colourpatch (R11533), Flinders Bay, R39156 (Osnaburg Street), and R39910 (Toy Place)
•  Riverslea: R45095 (Waters Edge)
• Molloy Island: Shire reserves

 
For further enquiries, please contact the Shire’s environment team on [email protected].