Appendix B – Pest and Weed Management Plan (5 MB) - Santos

Species Name: Oryctolagus cuniculus (European rabbit)
Status: Class 2 pest (LP Act)
Description: They are usually grey-brown with a pale belly, black or
ginger can also be common, with long hind legs, short front legs,
long ears and large eyes (DPIF 2007b). Rabbits usually weigh
between 1.3-2.3 kg
Distribution: Rabbits occur across Australia and have spread
throughout Queensland with the largest populations found in the
granite belt, south-western Darling Downs, Maranoa, southern
Warrego and the far south-west (DPIF 2007b). Moderate populations
are located in the north-western Darling Downs and North Burnett
and low populations in the remainder of the state (DPIF 2007b)
Impact: Rabbits compete with native wildlife for food and shelter and
increase the exposure of native wildlife to the dangers of predators
such as cats and foxes (DPIF 2007b). Rabbits are implicated in the
local extinction of some native species, as well as many native
species, such as the Bilby (now threatened)
Source: (DPIF 2008a)
Management Requirements: The operational objectives for the management of rabbits include reducing their numbers
throughout the Project Area
Monitoring: Report all rabbit sightings in the weekly Environmental Report
Control Actions: Fauna exclusion fencing to be utilised where necessary. If required, recommended active control
methods include baiting, trapping, ground shooting, warren destruction and/or fumigation and biological control
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