The Indian Myna bird problem

The Indian Myna or Common Myna was introduced into Australia in the 1860’s and has since become a very successful invader of both our natural and urban environments.

In many areas throughout Australia they are considered to be a feral pest.

Why are they considered to be a pest?

These birds breed very successfully in Australia and hundreds of birds can gather in a single roost (nesting sites).

They compete with native birds and small mammals such as Sugar Gliders, for food and nesting sites and they can also damage fruit and grain crops in agricultural areas.

In urban areas they can spread mites and have the potential to spread disease. They reduce the amenity of public areas through excessive noise and extensive bird droppings.

What can you do about the problem?

There are many ways in which residents can help to keep the numbers of Indian Myna birds down in our urban and bushland environments.

• Plant native trees and shrubs in your garden – this will attract more native birds to your garden and lessen the impacts of Indian Mynas
• Remove palm and pine trees and replace with native vegetation
• Watch what food is left out in your garden
• Mynas will eat pet food – remove this food after your pet has finished or feed your pet indoors
• The same applies to water left out for your pet – be aware that Mynas will probably also drink this water
• Certain plants that produce berry-like fruit eg raspberries will be a great source of food for Mynas and will bring them in droves to your garden. Remove all plants that produce such fruit.