Rabbit Calicivirus release to help control wild rabbits
The Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board, in collaboration with the Adelaide Hills Council, will soon be undertaking a Rabbit Calicivirus Disease (RHDV) K5 release across six Council reserves.
This initiative includes targeted warren fumigation to help control wild rabbit populations in the region.
The selected reserves for this program are:
- Woorabinda (Stirling Park)
- Lobethal Bushland Park
- Candlebark Reserve, Aldgate
- Sunnyspring Reserve, Aldgate
- AL Vincent Reserve, Oak Ave, Bridgewater
- The Deanery, Bridgewater
- Kersbrook Conservation Reserve (warren fumigation only)
The first free feeds are scheduled to commence on Thursday, 13th February, with the K5 baiting process expected to be completed within approximately nine days. Temporary signage will be placed in affected reserves to inform the public about the program.
What You Need to Know
Rabbit Calicivirus (RHDV) K5 is a biological control method specifically targeting rabbits and hares. It is considered a safe and effective way to manage rabbit populations in residential areas, as it does not pose a risk to humans, domestic pets such as dogs, or native wildlife, including possums, kangaroos, and birds.
Advice for Pet Rabbit Owners
Owners of domestic and pet rabbits are strongly encouraged to vaccinate their animals against the virus. While the mortality rate for unvaccinated rabbits can be as high as 90%, the risk is lower for rabbits kept in secure enclosures without contact with wild rabbits.
For further information, please visit the Hills and Fleurieu Landscape Board.