The Distribution of Rabbit Warrens at Mitchell, Queensland, in relation to Soil and Vegetation Characteristics

Abstract

In a 42,750-ha survey area in subtropical Queensland, rabbit warrens are confined mainly to sandy soils. Within these favoured areas the population is distributed unevenly, and there is further selection for preferred habitats. Detailed studies on a 246-ha area of sandhill showed that the open woodland and grassy open woodland associations contain most warrens per unit area, and also the largest warrens. The quality of habitat for rabbits appears to be determined by availability of food, type of soil, and vegetation cover providing protection from predators. In some vegetation associations, use of burrows varies only slightly, in others there are significant changes. There is a significant correlation between the estimated numbers of rabbits in the population, the total number of rabbits seen on spotlight transect counts in the evening, the numbers of rabbits seen on warrens during late afternoon watches, and the total number of active burrow entrances present in the study area. A list of plant species present and a description of the 23 vegetation associations in the study area is presented.