Glenorchy City Council will conduct a rabbit control program at KGV following continuing severe damage to the playing surface which poses a risk to public safety
Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey said rabbit numbers appeared to be increasing at the oval, with damage to the ground needing constant repair.
“Apart from the cost of repairing damage to the oval’s playing surface, there is an increasing risk of injury to a player or member of the public, forcing Council to take action and commence a control program.”
Council has sought advice from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (NRE), and been granted a permit to conduct a baiting program.
NRE gave permission for a program that involves pre-feeding of carrots, followed by the laying of carrots containing pindone poison, an anti-coagulant which is the same compound used in some common rat poisons.
NRE has recommended this program to Council as the best way forward.
Warning signs are being placed at the entrance to the ground to warn people about the program.
The baited carrots, which will be dyed green, will pose no risk to people provided they are not interfered with.
Dogs should not be taken on KGV at any time, but dog owners should take extra precaution and ensure their dog is on a lead if they are being walked in the vicinity of the oval.
The poisoned carrots pose no harm unless ingested, in which case medical assistance should be sought immediately.
Council is advised a dog would need to consume a large number of poisoned rabbits to be at risk of secondary poisoning.
Symptoms of pindone poisoning include excess salivation, vomiting, faecal blood and general weakening. Should a domestic animal show signs of poisoning, veterinarian assistance should be sought.
Mayor Hickey said she understood many people in the Glenorchy area were experiencing problems with rabbits and rabbit numbers.
“Unfortunately, Council is not authorised to conduct control programs on private property, however, we will keep the Department informed and would urge people to contact DNRE should they have any questions relating to their own property.”
“Appropriate warning signage will be placed around KGV when the program starts, and we strongly urge people to not interfere with the baits while it is underway,” she said.