Rabbits Devastate Australian Farms, New Virus Hope

0:00It's March 14th in Sydney, let's get into the news. A farmer in southern New South Wales has skipped planting crops on some fields for three years straight because of a massive rabbit infestation. Peter O'Brien, your coolman, estimates 5,000 to 10,000 rabbits across his land at night, ruining a 120 hectare paddock, and costing him $50,000 to $100,000 a year in lost canola production plus endless labor. Earlier this week, O'Brien joined seven other landholders in the first baiting program of the year using local land services. They spread about 200 kilograms of carrots laced with the chemical pin-done performer, hoping to kill another 5,000 to 10,000 rabbits, though it was just a tiny den locally. Nationwide, over 200 million rabbits threatened more than 300 native species. The Calissa virus released in 2017 wiped out about 60% of them back then, but survivors are building resistance now. Meanwhile, experts say no new biological

1:01controls are in development after the government cut funding for rabbit projects in 2022. Groups like the CSIRO have proposals for a fresh virus, but it could take 8-10 years without more cash, leaving farms, fences, and even town. Graveyard stemmed by burrows. Local councils are strapped, with one mayor saying baiting a loan would cost a million dollars yearly they can't spare. The invasive species council urges federal priority on this, while the government notes over $1.2 million already supports research, and promises ongoing collaboration. O'Brien says a new virus would transform their lives by handling the pests automatically. The Daily News Now is powered by our sponsor, link in the description. No need to switch positions. The sound is already where your head is. S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com