Effective Rabbit Control Tips
If you’re dealing with rabbits on your lifestyle block, you’re not alone. Although rabbits aren’t part of the broader Predator Free 2050 strategy, which focuses on threats to biodiversity, they are a common concern for many Tamahere landowners and one of our most frequently asked questions! Rabbits and rats...!
Like rats, rabbits become a nuisance due to their prolific breeding. Rabbits can produce up to 50 offspring each year, though only about 10% of these survive to six months old. This high reproduction rate means that even after control efforts, rabbit populations can bounce back quickly. Common predators include cats, ferrets, stoats, weasels, and harrier hawks, but these natural predators often can’t keep their numbers in check.
Here are some effective methods for managing rabbits:
Night Shooting: This method can reduce rabbit numbers, but you’ll usually need 2-3 sessions to see good results. Since rabbits that escape will avoid lights and gunshots, getting help from professionals with thermal scopes and silencers can be useful. For local recommendations on hunters, check out the Predator Free Tamahere Facebook group or other local Tamahere Facebook pages.
Poisoning: Poisoning is a cost-effective option, especially in winter when rabbits are breeding less and numbers are lower. Pindone, a first-generation anticoagulant poison, is effective for rabbits (and rats). It must be used in approved bait stations, never just thrown on the ground, to avoid risks to pets, non-target wildlife, and children. Rabbits need to feed on Pindone over several days, so ensure the bait stations are well-stocked and placed where rabbits frequently feed - look for droppings. Position the stations on short grass or bare ground to help keep bait dry. Close the stations during the day and reopen them at dusk to avoid birds stealing the bait. Always follow the label instructions, and remember to keep the stations out of reach of pets and children.
Some bait spillage is a risk—open bait stations at night for rabbits, and close them during the day to keep pets and children safe - Image credit J Morgan
Fumigation: For rabbits in burrows, fumigation can be quite effective. Magtoxin tablets release a toxic gas (phosphine) when exposed to moisture. Typically, 2-3 tablets per burrow are enough. Block the burrow entrances and add a small amount of water if the soil is dry to activate the tablets. Fumigation works best alongside other methods like shooting or poisoning to catch any young rabbits that might have survived.
Exclusion Fencing: If poisoning or shooting aren't for you, then consider exclusion fencing for your garden. A rabbit-proof fence should be at least 80 cm high, made from galvanized wire netting with mesh no larger than 3 cm. Bury the bottom of the netting 20 cm into the ground or extend it outward to prevent digging. Tree protectors can also help safeguard individual shrubs and trees.
Cats: While a hunting cat can help keep rabbit numbers down, be aware that they might also impact local bird populations.
For more detailed information, check out this Bionet resource on pest rabbit control. Good luck and feel free to reach out if you have more questions!
