RABBIT NUISANCE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVIII, Issue 21049, 7 December 1931, Page 10

RABBIT NUISANCE.

SOUTH TARANAKI AFFECTED. PROMPT ACTION URGED. That rabbits are definitely established on many properties from Patea up to and including Otakeho, near Opunake, was the news conveyed by Mr. H. 11. Denize, district stock inspector for the Department of Agriculture, in a report to the South Taranaki branch of tho Farmers' Union. "I feel it is hardly necessary to point out tke seriousness of the menace that the rabbit presents," stated the inspector. "Once the pest overcomes natural enemies it will increase at an alarming rate, as evidenced from tho experiences of other parts of the Dominion. It takes much time and money to eradicate." The menace was a real one, said the secretary, Mr. E. K. Cameron. He could recall the time when Gisborne settlers were first deciding upon ways and means of eradicating the few rabbits discovered to be on the land there. Not long after that time they were rushing wire-netting fences across the country to stop the rabbits' rapid spread to other parts. "And wire-netting fences are cosily," said Mr. Cameron. Men were required to patrol the fences as well. Several members confirmed that they had seen rabbits in different localities, and it was agreed to do all within the union's power to stamp them out.