A survey of myxomatosis and rabbit infestation trends in the eastern Riverina, New South Wales, 1951–1960

Abstract

Broad trends in rabbit infestation and myxomatosis outbreaks in the eastern Riverina of New South Wales during the period 1951–60 are described. After reaching a very low level in 1956 rabbit infestation is increasing again. Infestation over the past eight years has been limited to a small proportion of the region as a whole.

During the early 1950's most outbreaks of myxomatosis occurred during the spring and summer months. From 1954 onwards there was a large increase in winter outbreaks. During the last few years the trend appears to have reversed again.

Control efforts and methods vary according to the level of infestation prevailing in the region.