Why are Myna Birds a problem?
The Common or Indian Myna, identified by its yellow beak and eye patch, and brown body, is an introduced pest bird and their population is spreading rapidly. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature has ranked the Myna amongst the world’s 100 most invasive pest species. They are territorial and highly aggressive birds who compete with and displace native wildlife for habitat areas. They take over tree hollows and plug up nest sites they are not using, forcing possums and birds out and ejecting nestlings and eggs from their nests. They also compete with native fauna for food and habitat. It is important to distinguish the pest Indian Myna from the common Noisy Miner. Indian Mynas are predominantly brown with a black head. In flight, white wing patches are clearly visible. Noisy Miners are native birds that are predominantly grey. They are protected and must be released if trapped. What is Council doing? Lane Cove Council is conducting a program to eradicate the Indian Myna
