In response to community feedback and high rabbit numbers, Council is releasing Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHDV) in Batesford, Teesdale and Inverleigh this week and early next week.
RHDV, also known as 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 release sites, which are located on public land, have been selected to maximise the spread of the disease through the rabbit population across the community. At these sites, residents may see trails of free feed oats and inoculated oats.
The release will be conducted as per the Bait Delivery of RHDV-K5 (RAB011) Standard Operating Procedure. There is no risk to humans or animals other than rabbits as RHDV is a rabbit specific illness.
Council will be following up the RHDV release with our usual annual warren fumigation works on Council managed reserves several weeks after the release of the virus to further bring down rabbit numbers and close warrens.
Residents are encouraged to visit the Victorian Rabbit Action Network for advice on rabbit control.
For further information regarding the RHDV release, contact Council’s Natural Resources Officer at [email protected] or call 5220 7111.
To view Council's Rabbit Management Strategy, click here.