A baiting program to control the wild rabbit population has begun in the Victor Harbor council area.

The council says its rabbit control program aims to protect the natural environment and primary production.

It will roll out over several weeks, supported by Landscape Hills and Fleurieu, which is also making baits available to landholders across the Fleurieu.

The City of Victor Harbor will release Calicivirus RHDV K5 treated carrots on 16 February and collect them on Saturday 17 February.

The locations affected will be Day Road Reserve; Finniss Road Reserve; The Bluff Reserve; Olivers Parade; and GS Read Reserve.

The council says rabbits are a serious threat to production and biodiversity. 

“They can cause significant damage by eating native plants, out-competing native animals and digging warrens that cause erosion. 

“Rabbits can also destroy crops, pastures and native vegetation, creating millions of dollars’ worth of damage.”

It says that Calicivirus RHDV K5 affects rabbits exclusively, posing no threat to dogs, possums, birds, or humans. 

“Pet rabbit owners are strongly advised to vaccinate their pets.”

The council will monitor the sites regularly and signage will be in place around baiting areas.

Landscape Hills and Fleurieu has been running a rabbit bait distribution program for landholders.

While it has run out of Calicivirus baits, Pindone-laced carrots are still available; they can be used on properties of 1000 square metres or larger.

Distribution sessions will be held in Strathalbyn tomorrow, Tuesday 13 February, at Second Nature Conservancy from 3pm to 5pm and at McLaren Flat on Friday 16 February at the Recreational Grounds from 12.30pm to 2.30pm.

A second distribution round will be held in March, with sessions at Goolwa on 13 March, McLaren Flat on 15 March and Strathalbyn on 19 March.

For more information about rabbit control, visit the Landscape Hills and Fleurieu website or call 8391 7500.