Rabbit control

Baiting is the preferred method to significantly reduce pest animal numbers prior to implementing other control methods. There are strict requirements governing the use, supply and management of baits in Victoria.

1080 (sodium monofluoroacetate)

This is considered the most effective method of rabbit control currently available. However, not all poisons are humane and non-target animals can also be exposed to poisons.

1080 bait products are subject to regulatory control in Victoria and require a specific permit and endorsement for use. Native animals have a tolerance to 1080 which reduces the likelihood of off-target native animal fatalities.

There is no known antidote to 1080 poisoning.

Pindone

Pindone is often used where 1080 is either impractical or unsuitable. This is because of the delayed onset of pindone poisoning, and because there is an effective antidote (vitamin K1), which is not the case for 1080.

Pindone is a more appropriate bait for urban environments.

Ripping is the mechanical destruction of warrens.

It is recognised as the primary control method to achieve and maintain a long-term reduction in rabbit numbers. However, it is most effective when incorporated into an integrated program, using a variety of techniques.

Where appropriate, baiting programs should reduce the rabbit population by at least 95% prior to ripping. This will limit the population's ability to rebound and build up after the initial control effort.

When planning warren ripping, avoid areas around tree roots, as this can cause significant damage to trees and potentially weaken the tree increasing the risk of it falling.

Fumigation is used for the humane destruction of rabbits in their warrens by delivery of lethal levels of toxic gas.

This can be an expensive and labour-intensive technique and so should be used to support a baiting program, and in areas where warren ripping is inappropriate (waterways, restricted access, cultural heritage and native vegetation areas).

This treatment includes a minimum of one night of spotlight monitoring during late summer/early Autumn in areas suspected to contain rabbits.

This treatment includes a pre and post spotlight count. All active warrens are mapped prior to any treatment and are treated through fumigation by using Aluminium phosphide. A smoking device is used before treatment, with Aluminium phosphide to determine the number of entry points. All warren entrances are collapsed to minimise the chances of re-entry.

This treatment includes a pre and post spotlight count. Baiting then takes place with Pindone Oats in active rabbit areas. Bait trails are strategically positioned in accordance with rabbit densities from the spotlight counts. Rabbit carcasses are collected and removed from site.