Rabbits on Phillip Island: A Growing Concern
The picturesque coastal region of Phillip Island, southeast of Melbourne, is facing an unprecedented rabbit infestation, causing significant damage to homes and gardens. Residents like Peter Bradley and Vicki, who daily battle rabbit burrows under their foundations, describe a dire situation. Harold Jackson, a long-time island resident, has incurred nearly $20,000 in damages to his garden alone.
The Bass Coast Shire Council, acknowledging the failure of a 15-year, $180,000 rabbit control program, recently voted to develop a new eradication plan. Rabbit expert Dr. Brian Cooke suggests that a benign virus, RCV-A1, may be protecting rabbits from the calicivirus, Australia's main biological weapon. This virus is more prevalent in coastal areas with year-round green grass, creating a challenge for control efforts.
Dr. Tanja Strive, a CSIRO research scientist, supports this theory, noting that calicivirus control is less effective in coastal regions. The combination of natural coastal conditions and suburban development on Bass Coast creates an 'upward spiral' for rabbit immunity. Carola Adolf, a resident, experienced the dangers firsthand when her ride-on mower fell into a rabbit hole, causing injury.
The council's efforts are hindered by the need to protect endangered eastern barred bandicoots, which complicates baiting strategies. Jack Harris, the coordinator of the Bass Coast Landcare Network's rabbit project, highlights the varying levels of rabbit management among landholders. Community resistance to baiting further exacerbates the issue.
Councillor Mat Morgan emphasizes the need for cross-government coordination, stating that past efforts have been ineffective. The region's green credentials are at stake, as the rabbit population supports a high volume of feral predators and damages native plants. Eradication efforts must start immediately, warns Dr. Cooke, to prevent further ecological damage and financial burden.
