Urban rabbit control in the City of Mount Gambier
The Limestone Coast Landscape Board is currently undertaking urban rabbit control in the City of Mount Gambier. The control program follows reports from the community of an increase in rabbit numbers across the city.
The milder winter has led to the rabbit population boom. As a result, there is greater damage to gardens, landscaping, foot paths and infrastructure.
When and where urban rabbit control is happening
16 January to 28 January 2025
In collaboration with Tenison Woods College and the City of Mount Gambier pindone carrot baiting will occur from the Marist Park storage sheds to the Sugar Loaf Crater. Signage will be in place during the baiting period.
- Thursday 16 to Friday 17 January: free feed carrot (non-poisoned baits).
- Saturday 18 to Tuesday 28 January: poisoned baiting. All uneaten baits will be collected prior to school returning.
29 January to 10 February 2025
In collaboration with the City of Mount Gambier pindone carrot baiting will occur at The Old Cemetery and Pioneer Park. Signage will be in place during the baiting period.
- Wednesday 29 to Thursday 30 January: free feed carrot (non-poisoned baits).
- Friday 31 January to Saturday 10 February: poisoned baiting.
Follow up control
The Limestone Coast Landscape Board will conduct follow-up control with warren fumigation in these areas after the seasonal Autum break. We will also continue with the release of biological controls such as calicivirus to ensure population knock down.
Urban rabbit control in Naracoorte
What you need to know about pindone carrot baiting
The bait being used is diced carrots that are green in colour and have been treated with pindone bait. Pindone is the only poison bait available in urban areas for rabbit control. When used in accordance with the directions for use, risk of pindone to pets or native animals is low.
Poisoning of non-target animals can occur either directly by eating the carrot or through the tissues from a dead or dying poisoned rabbit. Rabbits are extremely susceptible to pindone poisoning. Other animals such cats and dogs are less susceptible than rabbits but may be at risk if exposed to very large doses or to smaller doses on successive days. Some native species are susceptible to pindone poisoning but baiting is being undertaken in a manner that minimises this risk. This includes using carrots rather than oat baits. The green colour of pindone bait is also known to be a deterrent for birds. Any uneaten bait and poisoned rabbit carcasses will be destroyed or buried. The poison does not accumulate in the soil and deteriorates with rainfall.
If pindone poisoning of domestic animals occurs treatment from a vet can be successful. If you are concerned your pet has been exposed to pindone you should contact your vet.
Local Landscape Officers, local knowledge
We have a responsibility to ensure rabbits are effectively managed across the region. This is guided by the Limestone Coast Pest Plant and Animal Strategy.
Our Landscape Officers are spread across the region and can help you control rabbits on your property by providing:
- local advice on control methods and timing of control
- supply of rabbit bait and equipment
- help to coordinate pest control with your neighbours
- support for you to engage a private contractor to control rabbits on your property or engage our Weed and Pest Animal Control Service if doing the control work yourself is not practical.
To find the best rabbit control solution to suit your needs contact your local Landscape Officer by calling 08 8429 7550 or find your local Landscape Officer.
