One person drives a vehicle while another operates the spotlight and counts the animals. Rabbits are counted at night with the aid of a handheld spotlight, from a slow-moving vehicle over a fixed route. Two counts on two consecutive evenings are needed to obtain reliable estimates of population changes. Record the number of animals sighted within a fixed distance (100-200 metres) either side of the road at 0.5-kilometre intervals.
Spotlight surveys
Spotlighting is a key monitoring tool to assess your rabbit population and should be used before and after control methods are applied. Identify feeding and warren locations that can be tackled during the day and plan a route of where the monitoring will take place.
ABOUT
WHEN
Complete counts over two consecutive nights. Counts must be at regular intervals over the same track, pre- and post-treatment.
FOLLOW UP
Daylight visits to establish warren locations and feeding areas.
PROS AND CONS
Spotlight surveys can identify rabbit presence and monitor effectiveness of control programs over time and is considered a reliable technique of monitoring rabbits. However, not all rabbit activity will be observed.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more resources and information on controlling rabbits:
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Cultural Heritage Awareness
Landholders must be careful to avoid further damage to the environment (including waterways) and Aboriginal cultural heritage sites when using machinery. Be aware of your legal obligations and obtain the necessary permits. Aboriginal Cultural Heritage may be found during works at any time, at any place. If suspected heritage is discovered, work is to cease and a Preliminary Report Form must be completed and sent to vahr@dpc.vic.gov.au. If you are unsure, seek advice from Agriculture Victoria, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, First Peoples – State Relations (formerly Aboriginal Victoria) or your local council.
More Rabbit Control Methods
The information provided by this website is intended for general information only and should not be relied on or used as a substitute for professional advice for your particular situation.
Before undertaking any weed or rabbit management, always obtain advice from a qualified expert, with respect to your own situation. Always read and follow the label before using any of the products mentioned and ensure that you are undertaking weed and rabbit management in the appropriate conditions and in the appropriate manner.
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