Australia's rabbit population surge outpaces control efforts

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Nov, 17:01 · Archive

A national report shows Australia is failing to control its rabbit population, with numbers increasing in several states.

A government-compiled Vertebrate Pest Management Report Card shows Australia is failing to control its rabbit population. Overall rabbit numbers, distribution and impacts have remained largely unchanged over the past five years, yet populations have increased in Victoria, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory. Environmental damage is worsening in New South Wales and Tasmania.

Experts estimate there are 200 million rabbits across the country. They threaten 322 nationally listed species, destroy native vegetation and wildlife habitat, and cause more than £200 million in agricultural losses annually. Reece Pianta, Advocacy Director of the Invasive Species Council, said the report showed Australia was 'still failing to get their numbers down'.

The federal government's flagship Established Pest Animals and Weeds program faces uncertainty, with ongoing funding not included in the last federal budget and a decision on its continuation expected next year. Pianta noted that 'rabbit biocontrol has been one of Australia's greatest environmental success stories' but that 'rabbits are gradually developing resistance to existing viruses'. The federal government invested £2.6 million into the initial phase of new rabbit biocontrol research, though more funds are needed to complete the programme.

How it is being reported

• Australia failing to bring rabbits under controlA new national report reveals Australia is failing to get rabbits under control, with populations increasing in several states and damage worsening in others.Perth Now · 14 Nov, 16:33
• Australia failing to bring rabbits under controlA new national report reveals Australia is failing to get rabbits under control, with populations increasing in several states and damage worsening in others.The West Australian · 14 Nov, 16:33

In this story: Australia · Victoria · Tasmania · Australian Capital Territory · New South Wales · Invasive Species Council · Reece Pianta

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