Pest control has begun at Riverside Reserve, Balclutha
The rabbit pest control operation has begun at Riverside Reserve in Balclutha.
Our pest contractors have been enthusiastic about beginning the pest control operation and have proactively laid out the rabbit poison in Riverside Reserve two day early.
Dog walkers are also advised to keep their dogs out of the pest control area and always keep dogs on a leash in the surrounding areas from now until early October, to allow the bait to disburse.
We apologise for any inconvenience for our pest contractors proactiveness!
About the pest control operation
The operation will use pindone laced carrots to target high rabbit numbers in this area. The carrots will be dyed green, so they are easily identified. People should avoid touching these.
Two applications will be distributed of carrots poisoned with Pindone in the fenced motocross area and at the aerodrome during this period.
We are advising people to avoid walking dogs in the pest control area (the motocross area and aerodrome) during this pest control period and ask that dogs are kept on a lead in any surrounding areas. Depending how much they eat, Pindone can make dogs very sick or could be fatal.
If you have any concerns, please contact your vet immediately who will have stocks of the antidote, Vitamin K. This needs to be administered without delay.
The pest control work was aimed to help Council keep feral rabbit numbers below the required level set in the New Zealand Biosecurity Act.
Warning signs have been erected to ensure people are aware of where it has been distributed.
Generally, rabbits will die in their burrows after eating pindone, however there may be some who die out in the open.
Pindone carrots are used in winter as food sources are most scarce and fewer young rabbits are present.