Indian Myna
Acridotheres tristis
Indian Myna birds were first brought into Australia from India around 1862 for the control of insect pests in market gardens in Melbourne, and later in North Queensland to control insects in sugar cane.
The birds were found to be unsuccessful in reducing insect pests and soon colonised many urban areas. Indian mynas are very territorial and will quickly force native birds out of their traditional nesting sites. They can also carry potential health risks to humans through mites and lice.
Indian Mynas have colonised in and around the township of Childers where they have had a major impact on native bird populations, due to their aggressive and territorial habits. In 2009 in an effort to reduce bird numbers, Council implemented a trapping and awareness programme.
Using specially designed cage traps the programme has seen a marked reduction in Indian Myna numbers in and around Childers.
Additional sightings of the Indian Myna have been made in other areas of the Bundaberg Region.
How you can help
Residents can assist the programme by reporting all sightings of Indian Mynas to Council’s land protection officers.
Indian Mynas will be attracted to food and residents can ensure all rubbish and pet and poultry feed bins are covered and not accessible.
Indian Mynas prefer disturbed habitat. Where possible, keep native vegetation or re-plant native species. Remove palms and dead palm fronds to reduce nesting sites.
Residents interested in participating in the programme can contact Council's land protection officers.
Approved landholders will be supplied with a cage trap and assistance with their setup and use.
Trapped birds will be collected by Council's land protection officers and humanely euthanised. A bounty is paid for each bird received.
Call 1300 883 699 for further information or to register your interest.