A great booklet full of information about the selection of RHDV1 K5 as a new biological control for rabbits in Australia has been produced by the Invasive Animals CRC. The booklet also sets out how landholders can involved in the release of the virus, and gives some history of rabbits and former control measures in Australia.
RHDV1 has been used as a bio-agent for rabbit control in Australia since 1996. A new virus, RHDV2, has now been found in NSW, Victoria and SA. For more information see the Update from the Invasive Animals CRC.
The ABC Landline program has provided a thorough update on the pending release of the RHDVK5 virus. To see the story and transcript visit the Landline website.
The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) has approved the registration of a new RHDV K5 strain of rabbit calicivirus that will strengthen Australia’s ability to manage wild rabbits. Read more at the Minister’s Media Release. Landholders can register to be part of the national release. See PestSmart for more information.
Rabbit detection dogs, baiting, fumigation and controlled releases of Calicivirus have all helped to protect mala (rufous hare-wallaby) from competition by rabbits. See the full article from Parks Australia (2015).
Western Quolls are benefitting from, and contributing to, ‘rewilding’ programs with controls for cats, foxes and rabbits. See the full blog from Rewilding Australia (2015)
RFA has received letters from both the Hon. Paula Wriedt, MHA, Minister for Tourism, Arts & the Environment, Tasmania, and the Hon. Malcolm Turnbull, Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Resources thanking the Foundation for their interest in the eradication of rabbits and rodents on Macquarie Island. Both Ministers informed us that the Tasmanian […]