Volunteer trappers mark eight years of operation of the Macedon Ranges Indian Myna Action Group this year.
Indian mynas are an introduced species, now considered one of the world’s most invasive pests.
Territorial and domineering, these birds commonly form large flocks on the fringes of town, driving out native species and out-competing them for nesting hollows, ousting other occupants and their eggs from their nests and preying on the young.
It’s the noticeable decline in their own backyard native birds that drives most MRIMAG trappers to action.
“Our Woodend garden was filled with small native birds – wrens, spinebills, honeyeaters – and then it wasn’t,” said resident Kate Daniel.
“All I could see and hear was a mob of indian mynas.
“I didn’t love the idea of trapping, but I couldn’t ignore the changes in our own garden; the mynas had driven out everything.
“I successfully trapped on and off as necessary and it made a huge difference. It cost me nothing but a few dollars of dried cat food.”
MRIMAG has recorded 7445 mynas trapped across the shire since the group’s formation in 2013, with some impressive tallies: Gisborne 3759, Lancefield 2439 and Woodend 2337. Active trappers are at work in Riddells Creek, Romsey, Kyneton, Macedon, Newham and Malmsbury too.
While the group is pleased with its success, MRIMAG coordinator Ron Fink said mynas could quickly go from declared almost non-existent in a town, to roaming the main street again.
“Without constant control the numbers will surge in a short time,” Mr Fink said.
“MRIMAG is calling for more volunteers to sign up for this free community-run program.
“Members will receive a simple-to-operate trap, instructions on its use and on the humane disposal of the target species, as well as tips on discouraging their return.
“We know that even a small number of trappers seems to be able to keep the number of mynas down to a very small population size, but we need new and active recruits to help keep it going. Every single trapper’s contribution is worthwhile.”
Interested community members should contact Ron Fink on woodend58@hotmail.com or 0407 661 129.
