Rabbit population in Western Springs Park has escalated out of control following a bumper breeding season of wild rabbits, and an increased number of abandoned pet bunnies. Regular visitors to the park have noticed the increase in numbers, particularly early morning and late afternoon.
Some visitors defend the rabbits stoutly, and say they are no problem, their kids love them, and they enjoy seeing them hopping around the park. Others are more concerned. DOC regards rabbits as pests, and tells us anyone can hunt and control them. They are, however, hard to eradicate.
Back in 2001, Bernard Orsman wrote in the Herald about the cull planned in that year. He indicated that trapping was ineffective, and that the calici virus was no use for adult rabbits. A night shoot was undertaken. At that time Councillor Penny Sefuiva was on record as saying rabbits were “rodents”, and she supported a drastic reduction in numbers. They eat young native trees, they produce a myriad holes which endanger runners and children, they eat grass, and cause too much damage to be left alone, according to Council officers, including pest control contractor, David Stejskal.
Stejskal told Ponsonby News that a survey being undertaken now will decide the rabbits’ fate.
The 64 hectare park is crowded with ducks, geese, and a wide variety of birds, as well as rabbits. Mark Miller, Council Parks Manager, is on record as saying it is “unlikely” 1080 would be used, but he indicated that Council is aware of the issue and is working on a pest management plan “which follows best practise guidelines.”
David Stejskal pointed out that the boom in rabbit numbers may draw larger predators to the park, such as cats. “We have a responsibility to look after recreational needs, and the environment, and ensure there is an ecological balance in the park area,” he said.
And so the Council is surveying the park to ascertain the extent of the problem, and work out the best way to control rabbit numbers. By the time this editorial goes to print the survey should be completed, and a timeframe for action worked out. Poison baits or a night cull shoot are the two most likely options. The idea of poison baits is anathema to many: pets cats and dogs could be affected, but Stejskal said the use of RHD (Rabbit-killing haemorrhagic disease) was unlikely as it is known to be quite ineffective for mature rabbits.
If you are hopping mad at the prospect of the cull, by all means make your views known to Council officers or Ponsonby News before action is taken, but it is unlikely no action will be taken.
These cuddly little bunnies are not the sweet little innocents some would have us believe, and they form part of 10-30 million rabbits nationwide. (JOHN ELLIOTT)