Calicivirus to be released to control wild rabbits in Crescent Head

Kempsey Shire Council

Rabbits in Crescent Head holiday park

The next stage of wild rabbit control in Crescent Head will see the release of Calicivirus and rabbit owners are urged to ensure their bunnies are up-to-date with their vaccinations.

Kempsey Shire Council working in partnership with NSW Local Land Services and Crescent Head businesses to control the growing wild rabbit population in Crescent Head.

As the weather warms up and mosquitoes begin to emerge, the next round of control is scheduled to begin in mid-November, involving the release of the Calicivirus (RHDV1) K5 strain. This virus is spread by insect vectors such as mosquitoes.

Pet rabbit owners are asked to ensure their rabbits are vaccinated against this virus. Rabbits can be vaccinated at 10 to 12 weeks of age and should be given an annual booster.

There is no evidence that this virus causes infection in other species of native and domestic animals.

The first round of rabbit control involved pindone baiting as the spread of Calicivirus requires the assistance of warmer weather and mosquitos.

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