Why are Indian Mynas a problem?

Indian Mynas were introduced to Australia in the 1860's to control insects in market gardens. Since their introduction, Myna populations have spread along the east coast of Australia and to New Zealand. Mynas prefer modified urban environments, where food and nesting sites are plentiful. They are opportunistic feeders attracted to food scraps, dog food, and chicken feed, as well as natural foods such as worms and nectar.

Indian Mynas breed quickly and live in family groups. They are aggressive, territorial, and congregate in large numbers. Gangs of Mynas will attack smaller or weaker birds and animals including blue tongue lizards. Mynas compete for nesting hollows with native birds, destroying their eggs and chicks and interrupting natural breeding. They also evict small mammals, like Sugar Gliders from hollows. Indian Mynas also compete with native birds for food resources.

Indian Mynas are messy birds, nesting and roosting in tree hollows, in palm trees and under roof cavities. They carry bird mites which may be transferred to humans, causing skin irritation and rashes.

• Do not feed birds in backyards, as it encourages Mynas and can threaten the health of native birds.
• Ensure all cavities and roofs are sealed so Mynas cannot build a nest and breed-check for rosellas or lorikeets first!
• Make sure pet food and food scraps are are out of reach of Mynas-do not leave pet food outside.
• Open and simplistic gardens with lots of lawn may attract Mynas. Keep your garden natural and diverse using local native species.
• · Mynas roost in exotic palm trees. Berries from these plants are a popular food for Mynas.
• Replace exotic palms with small native trees, and keep palms well pruned.
• · Planting too many nectar-rich flowers, such as Grevilleas and Callistemons, will attract Indian Mynas as well as Native Miners.
• Use a variety of local native plants with small flowers, seeds and pods. This will provide food for a diverse range of native birds and discourage the Indian Myna.

Myna Bird trapping trials have been carried out in the region with varying success. Trapping is most successful where Mynas feed and the trapper has plenty of time to attend the trap. Myna Birds learn to avoid the trap over time. Although useful in some areas of high population, the trapping of Myna Birds alone, will not be effective.