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Working with a rabbit control contractor

The following list of things to get done and comments is not a fool-proof recipe for controlling rabbits but might, nevertheless, be very helpful.

  1. Locate your contractor and establish contract - how much per hour, can they offer return visits, what is planned for annual maintenance, etc. Check the contractor is appriopriately licensed if they intend to use baits (ACUP licence).
  2. Ask for a map of the warrens etc and a plan for action. The map can be private but use RabbitScan. The plan can be reviewed by a member of the Rabbit Sweep team.
  3. Check the location and the season and the weather - they all affect the outcomes.
  4. Make sure fences will be checked and repaired (if necessary) and gate is shut and rabbit-proof.
  5. If the plan includes baiting and fumigation, that can be done by a single person. 
  6. Check how warrens and habitat will be treated - fence of habitat if necessary. Check if ripping or implosion might also be needed. These may a require separate, qualified contractor.
  7. Check all locations for Aboriginal Heritage constraints - note controlling can be done but sometimes with extra permissions etc.
  8. Advise your neighbours of potential action and, if possible, work with them (one fence around more than one property, avoid their rabbits moving in to yoiur property, or perhaps just palin 'help them'. (Contractors are required to put appropriate notices on your property.)
  9. Report work done using RabbitScan - you may need to know again. Send a short report of what you did and learnt to the Rabbit Sweep community...
  10. Review the work done and ensure the follow-up will cover any missed spots. Expect to spend a few years if you are to eliminate rabbits but you will save money and the environment so it is worth it!