Seasonal Incidence of Myxomatosis in New-South-Wales

Abstract

We analysed monthly records of the presence or absence of myxomatosis in the 59 Pasture Protection Board Districts of New South Wales for 1959-64 and 1980-86. These periods respectively precede and follow the introduction of the European rabbit flea, Spilopsyllus cuniculi (Dale), into New South Wales. Throughout New South Wales during the two periods, myxomatosis was reported more frequently in summer than in winter. The seasonal trend was more pronounced on the western and central plains than on the slopes, tablelands or coastal regions. The incidence of myxomatosis was positively related to rainfall on the western and central plains and slopes, but not on the tablelands and coast. After the introduction of the rabbit flea, the reported incidence of myxomatosis increased more on the tablelands than in the other regions.