Rabbits

Development of a shelf-stable Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) product

This project will prepare a freeze-dried stock of RHDV and test it for efficacy and stability. Such a product would allow pest managers to 'seed' rabbit populations with RHDV much more conveniently than previous methods.

Completing the development of a Carbon Monoxide pressure fumigator for integrated rabbit management

This project follows on from a series of National Feral Animal Control Program projects to develop a carbon monoxide fumigator for rabbits for those situations where ripping and baiting is not feasible. A prototype fumigator has been developed which seems to meet all requirements. Further fumigators now need to be manufactured to complete field testing to meet Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) registration requirements.

Pressure fumigation of rabbit warrens using carbon monoxide

Warren fumigation is an important rabbit control tool, particularly in areas where warren ripping is not feasible. The current pressure fumigant, chloropicrin ('tear gas') is not considered humane or safe. This project will investigate the use of carbon monoxide for fumigation which is more humane and safer for operators.

Causes of local variation in the impact of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) on rabbit populations

This project will undertake statistical analysis of archival data to identify key variables affecting the efficacy of RHDV in different areas. It will also assess any pattern of spatial and social organisation of rabbit populations relative to RHDV effect at four study sites. Virus transmission rates will be modelled, based on contact patterns between individuals of different movements, sex and age. This work will contribute to development of rabbit-RHDV models to inform management.

The role of baiting in future best practice rabbit management

Poison baiting is a key component of integrated rabbit management—particularly in higher rainfall areas where Rabbit Calicivirus Disease (RCD) has been less effective and where warren ripping is not appropriate in some situations. This project assessed ways to improve the kill rate, target specificity and quality control of baits.   
Additional information and project report: Efficacy of a controlled release of rabbit calicivirus disease in southern Victoria

Decision support systems for vertebrate pest control

This project developed a decision support system—which integrates economic and biological disciplines-for managing rabbits using a NSW Central Tablelands sheep grazing system as an example.
Additional information: Managing Vertebrate Pests: Rabbits

Strategic management of Rabbit Calicivirus Disease (RCD)

RCD has substantially reduced rabbit populations over wide areas of Australia-particularly in low rainfall pastoral areas where there have been major benefits in pasture production and regeneration of vegetation. It has been estimated that RCD benefits the Australian wool industry by over $100 million annually and improves the sustainability of production. However, RCD has not been as effective in many higher rainfall areas and it may be possible to use the virus in conjunction with conventional control techniques to achieve better effect. This project will consider recent RCD work to recommend practical methods for increasing the effectiveness of RCD.
Project report: Making the most of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease

Efficacy of bait stations for broadacre control of rabbits

Bait stations offer potential for low cost ‘mop-up’ rabbit control following Rabbit Calicivirus Disease (RCD)/myxomatosis outbreaks or implementation of other control techniques. Bait stations also allow the treatment of small 'hot spots' of rabbits in paddocks where stock cannot be moved due to water shortages in summer or during drought. Another potential advantage of bait stations is an expected reduction in non-target impacts. This project assessed the effectiveness of this technique.
Project report: Efficacy of bait stations for broadacre control of rabbits

Development of a rapid field test for measuring the serological status of wild rabbits to Rabbit Calicivirus Disease (RCD)

This project developed a rapid field test for measuring the serological status of wild rabbits to determine their natural resistance to RCD. This work has allowed more effective management of RCD and as a result, rabbit populations.

Maximising the efficacy of Rabbit Calicivirus Disease (RCD) as a component of integrated rabbit management

This project assessed interactions between conventional rabbit control techniques, RCD and benign calicivirus to maximise sustained reduction in rabbit numbers. The network for direct transfer of results to participating landholders is already well established through the Rangelands Action Program in South Australia and the Rabbit Buster program in Victoria.
Project report: Maximising the efficacy of rabbit haemorrhagic disease for integrated rabbit control

Field release of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD) virus on bait material

This project investigated the potential of bait delivery of RHD to influence the timing and effectiveness of RHD outbreaks and further enhance its effectiveness.
Media release: Rabbit numbers reduced by up to 80 per cent in calicivirus baiting trial 

Crop and pasture protection from rabbits in native bush remnants

This project documented and promoted the cost-effectiveness of fencing off remnant vegetation to prevent agricultural losses from rabbits. This approach is also likely to provide considerable conservation benefits by: (a) eliminating the need for ongoing use of invasive control techniques such as baiting and ripping in native vegetation areas and (b) allowing the possibility of eradicating rabbits within the fenced areas, thus eliminating their impact on native vegetation regeneration.
Project report: Crops and pasture protection from rabbits in native bush remnants

Adaptive fox and rabbit management in agricultural areas

This project assessed the effect of different fox baiting strategies on lamb marking percentages.
Project report: Assessing the effect of a reduction in baiting rates for wild dogs