Rabbit haemorrhagic disease: Macquarie Island rabbit eradication adds to knowledge on both pest control and epidemiology

A successful rabbit eradication campaign on sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island, using the Rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV), challenged the prevailing notion that cool or humid climates limit RHDV efficacy. The study found that heavy rabbit mortality occurred despite these conditions, suggesting that a non-pathogenic calicivirus (RCV-A1) present in other regions may instead inhibit RHDV spread and reduce disease severity. This discovery advanced understanding of both pest control dynamics and the epidemiology of RHDV, demonstrating its potential as an effective tool even in challenging environments. The research also highlighted how RHDV complemented traditional eradication methods, such as aerial baiting, by reducing secondary poisoning risks to seabirds.

Cooke, B., Springer, K., Capucci, L., & Mutze, G. (2017). Rabbit haemorrhagic disease: Macquarie Island rabbit eradication adds to knowledge on both pest control and epidemiology. Wildlife Research, 44(2), 93–96. https://doi.org/10.1071/wr16221