Half-Measures Against Rabbits Deplored

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29931, 19 September 1962, Page 12

Half-Measures Against Rabbits Deplored

It was to be regretted that in a few cases some of the younger men, who have no personal experience of the damage which rabbits can cause, do not appreciate that in fighting this pest there can be no half-measures, says the annual report of the Rabbit Destruction Council. “The attitude of some that the rabbit can be safely left alone for a few years and then be dealt with vigorously in a short campaign is a very dangerous one,” says the report “It is unfortunate that there are too many examples to prove that this intermittent basis of attack is one which, if followed, would cause great economic loss to the country. “The need for complete coverage of all rabbit-infested areas remains a vital issue, and it is to be regretted that the few remaining areas threatening the country have not been covered in the interests of the majority. “Apathy also continues to exist in too many places, and while this remains the fight against the rabbit is seriously handicapped.” The council says that it is still advocating that 1080 is the most suitable poison available for rabbits. It says that its value has been conclusively proved in recent years, but it is apparent that more consideration is needed to ensure that the most effective method is used.

Some boards are still using low-level killing methods, especially night shooting, when a campaign for a heavier infestation should be adopted. During the year amalgamation reduced the number of boards in the country from

208 to 185. “Greater scope exists for amalgamation in the South Island, many existing North Island rabbit boards being large enough, particularly bearing in mind that some are also working against opossums or are likely to be doing so soon,” says the report. “The council continues to recommend to boards to keep in mind the possibility of amalgamation where there seem to be prospects of greater efficiency and economy.” Wallaby Destruction

Reporting a spectacular clearance of the wallaby in South Canterbury under the direction of the Wallaby Destruction Committee, representatives of rabbit boards whose districts are partly infested, the council says that in some limited areas it seems that all of the wallabies have been destroyed. This severe reduction has permitted a very welcome growth of sheep feed, which was seriously affected by the wallaby in recent years. The council says that the committee will continue to operate at least until the end of the present financial year, about which time consideration will be given to the desirability of handing back responsibility for follow-up work to tiie nine rabbit boards which pooled their energy and finance through the committee.