Rabbit Management
Effective rabbit management in the UK is crucial due to the significant damage these animals can inflict on agriculture, forestry, and conservation efforts. Rabbits can cause substantial financial losses for farmers by eating and trampling crops, impacting yields and quality. They also pose a threat to forestry through bark stripping and grazing on saplings. Furthermore, their burrowing can damage structures and create dangerous situations.
Crop Damage
Rabbits can cause significant damage to crops. They consume various plants, including cereals, vegetables, and tree seedlings, and their burrowing can also damage root systems and destabilize land. This damage can lead to reduced yields, financial losses for farmers, and even environmental problems.
Disease
Wild rabbits in the UK can spread certain diseases to humans. These include bacterial infections like tularemia (rabbit fever) and viral diseases like myxomatosis and Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD), though transmission is usually through indirect contact or from infected vectors.
Economic Impact
Rabbits are a major pest for farmers, causing an estimated £50 million in damage annually to crops like winter wheat, barley, and oats.
They can reduce crop yields and quality by eating and trampling plants. The damage is especially severe in areas with high rabbit populations.
If you need help or have questions regarding the management of rabbits on your property (in South East Essex), please contact us and we would be happy to offer guidance and help manage the rabbit population on your land.