A strategic rabbit control program that features warren and harbour destruction is the most cost-effective way to reduce rabbit populations and prevent ongoing damage, particularly when applied over large, semi-arid areas. Rabbits can survive by building extensive underground warrens or using above-ground shelter, such as lantana or blackberry bushes. With good planning and coordination, long-term control can be achieved by removing or destroying the areas that rabbits depend on for survival.
The aim of warren destruction, or ripping, is not just to bury the warren entrances but to ensure proper breakdown of the warren structure. Ripping should be carried out when rabbit numbers are at their lowest, usually in summer (eg after a disease outbreak or following a baiting program) Removing above-ground harbour (ie shelter) at the same time will increase the effectiveness of ripping.
Precautions
It is important to take care to protect native vegetation when destroying rabbit warrens. In many states and territories, clearing of native vegetation or disturbance of significant sites or habitat is subject to strict regulations (eg a permit is required before removing or damaging native vegetation in Victoria)
Including areas like Ararat, Ballarat, Bendigo, Colac, Camperdown, Castlemaine, Creswick, Daylesford, Dimboola, Donald, Halls Gap, Horsham, Hamilton, Lake Bolac, Maldon, Moyston, Melbourne, Mortlake, St Arnaud, Stawell, Warrnambool and many more.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.