Rabbit population surge threatens Australia’s native animals
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Scientists in Australia report increasing rabbit numbers across the country, posing a growing danger to native species.
Good rainfall and a developing resistance to viruses are contributing to the population boom. Dr. Pat Taggart, an ecologist with Bush Heritage Australia, notes that Jojo, a rabbit-detecting dog working at Bon Bon Reserve in South Australia, is “being kept very busy” with her work covering up to 20 kilometers daily.
Bush Heritage Australia owns the former sheep property where Jojo works, and the reserve is located in the arid center of South Australia. The increasing rabbit population presents a challenge to conservation efforts aimed at protecting the country’s unique wildlife. The scientists believe the rabbits are thriving due to favorable conditions and a reduced impact from previously effective viruses. This suggests that current control methods may need to be re-evaluated to address the growing threat.
The article does not state what steps Bush Heritage Australia or other organizations will take to address the rising rabbit population.
