Scientists are asking people to collect dead rabbits to help research whether biological tools are still effective in controlling surging wild rabbit populations across Australia.
Myxomatosis and calicivirus have helped bring down rabbit numbers across Australia in recent decades.Researchers are studying how two biological tools used to control rabbits have evolved decades after their release in Australia.
With rabbit numbers up across the country, researchers are asking the public to collect and share tissue samples of dead rabbits to help track the extent of the viruses. "Rabbit's superpower is their ability to breed so rapidly, they're able to breed resistance to myxomatosis and to subsequent biological controls as well," Ms Magnussen said.
"If people see dead rabbits in the field, what we're asking is that they collect a sample and submit it for these research purposes," Mr Magnussen said. "And just as medical professionals are trying to keep in front of the different strains of COVID, we are always on the lookout of new strains of RHDV."Landscapes Hills and Fleurieu stewardship team leader Susan Ivory said reports were growing of rabbits digging under sheds and houses, and spreading fleas, in the peri-urban areas around Adelaide.Good rainfall in recent years leads to an explosion of rabbits on NSW farms.
Rabbit Pests Calicivirus Myxomatosis Rabbit Free Australia Animals Farming Pests Pest Control Invasive Species Diseases Dead Rabbits Rabbit Population Boom Why Are There So Many Rabbits Sa Rabbits
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