Page "Rabbits in Australia" Paragraph 6

In a classic example of unintended consequences, within ten years of their introduction in 1859, rabbits had become so prevalent that two million could be shot or trapped annually without having any noticeable effect on the population.

It was the fastest spread ever recorded of any mammal anywhere in the world.

Today, rabbits are entrenched in the southern and central areas of the country, with scattered populations in the northern deserts.

< cite > It is strange now to read in the Portland " Guardian " of 1868, under the heading of " A Malicious Act ," the following :- " Mr. J. Trangmar received from Mr. Austin some wild rabbits.

They rapidly multiplied, but some evil-disposed person has been digging them out.

We believe they are known, and hope they will be punished.

" ( Thus is patriotism rewarded ).</ cite >