In response to community feedback and high rabbit numbers, Council will be releasing Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (Calicivirus) in Teesdale and Inverleigh this week. Calicivirus circulates naturally in rabbit populations due to its release in the 1990’s but its effectiveness can be boosted by targeted releases in areas with high rabbit numbers. It is spread within rabbit populations by direct contact with infected rabbits, their excreta and via flies. The virus infects rabbits and hares but does not affect any other species. Domestic rabbits can be vaccinated against the virus.
The release will be via inoculated oat bait in the Teesdale Grassy Woodlands and at Turtle Bend in Teesdale and in the Leigh River Reserve in Inverleigh.
While many localities within the municipality are reporting high rabbit numbers, Council has only been able to obtain 4 vials of inoculant from the supplier which has limited our release sites.
Council’s normal annual rabbit control program of fumigation and warren collapse on Council managed land will follow several weeks after the release of Calicivirus to try to further reduce rabbit numbers and their impact on the community. Residents are encouraged to undertake their own rabbit control works on their properties. The Victorian Rabbit Action Network has excellent advice and resources to support private landholders in their battle with rabbits.
More information regarding Calicivirus can be found here.