Rabbit baiting program returns

MAUDE and District Landcare Group’s annual rabbit baiting campaign is back in February, and volunteers are encouraging landowners to take part.

Secretary, Laura Hollingsworth, said following a period of above average rainfall, there is plenty of feed growing for the introduced pests.

“If you have a number of rabbits obvious on your property, go out with a spotlight, or even a strong torch, and have a look around at night,” she said.

“Our program is conducted using pindone-poisoned carrot. Pindone is an anticoagulant, which works by blocking the blood-clotting mechanism. It is regarded as one of the most humane ways to control rabbits.

“There is an effective antidote for this poison which reduces the risk to non-target animals.”

Ms Hollingsworth said anyone in the region can get involved and asks people to talk to their neighbours about rabbit baiting as soon as possible, and then work together to boost their success next month.

“We stress that the program involves coming to Maude on three dates to collect your bait, as the program is designed for the rabbits to have access to the bait over that period.

“It is a cumulative poison, so it is imperative that all three feeds are carried out on the days of collection,” she said.

The baiting dates are Friday, 3, Monday, 6, and Thursday, 9 February, with pick-up between 2pm and 4pm at 1824 Steiglitz Road, Maude, next to the tennis courts.

“Several free feeds of un-poisoned carrots over a few nights beforehand helps to get the rabbits used to going to the trail… This is your choice and we do not provide carrots for the free feed,” Ms Hollingsworth said.

Rabbits are attracted to disturbed ground, and poisoned bait is to be placed in a shallow trail.

For many years, the campaign was led by volunteer Lex Stray, who has recently retired from her organisational role.

“I would like to thank her for her tireless efforts to support our community in this very important work,” Ms Hollingsworth said.

“Her dedication and commitment to our group is outstanding and the wealth of knowledge that she has brought to the program since its inception has been invaluable.”

Twenty, 10, and five-kilogram bags of pindone-poisoned carrots are $78, $45, and $30 respectively. Contact [email protected] or 5281 9395 for more information, or to place an order by Friday, 27 January.