DEATH TO RABBITS.

Press, Volume LX, Issue 18073, 15 May 1924, Page 3

DEATH TO RABBITS.

A DEADLY DUST. '

' ynou ova. own cob*s*ordk»to.'. -■SYDNEY, May, 7. ; ' ! jveen.lnterest.is .being taken by graziers in a new method of exterminating rabbits, by the use of calcium cyanide .dust, and there was a large gathering at Wyandra, in North Queensland, last week to witness demonstrations in a badly infested area. The method of rabbit destruction was entirely different from any other pre- : viously tried, 'lhe "material itself is in the form of fine dust, and is said to be and- non-inflammable. It gives off no heat, and is non-cor-. rosive. It is blown with a . strong, blast,: with a light knapsack ..type of' ulower, with great rapidity through the main channels of the Warren. . Calcium cyanide dust is thus laid' on all the 'main'''walls of the warren. This de•posit'of dust gives off hydro-cyanic acid over at'least : 24, lines, which factor is really responsible for the successful results secured. Twappreciate this action fully it mußt be understood that calcium cyanide dust remains unchanged until exposed to the air, but Upon exposure the chemical action releases the death-dealing'gas. ■■Ten'. Warrens, both largo and s mall; were treated, and those present were much impressed by the simplicity and ■ speed with which the work was done. Keen criticism ! was exhibited when various points were tinder observation, arid those present appeared satisfied with the economy and simplicity of the method. Several war/ens were partially dug out, and the dead rabbits found proved the deadliness of the process. Some of the warreavmust have been formed and occupied for over 20 years, .and consequently the burrows were deep and the .time at the diwposal'of the demonstiatora being limited, it became impossible to dig them out completely. (