Why Rabbits Are a Problem
Crop Destruction and Yield Loss
Rabbits cause extensive damage to cereal and vegetable crops by grazing on young shoots and stripping stems down to ground level. Even a small population can devastate a newly sown field overnight, ruining germination and forcing expensive replanting. Their constant feeding reduces yield quality and quantity, cutting into profits and wasting months of hard work.
Burrowing Damage and Land Instability
Rabbits dig complex burrow systems that undermine the stability of fields. These tunnels make the ground unsafe for heavy machinery, increase the risk of vehicle sinkage, and cause soil erosion that worsens over time. On paddocks and tracks, their holes also pose a danger to horses and people, with broken legs and twisted ankles being common results.
Rapid Breeding and Population Growth
A single pair of rabbits can produce dozens of offspring within a year, meaning local populations can explode if not controlled. Because they breed year-round, their numbers can quickly spiral out of control, overwhelming crop defences and spreading damage across multiple fields. Once established, a warren can be extremely difficult to eradicate.
