Indian Mynas (Acridotheres tristis) have spread through eastern Australia since being introduced to control insect pests in the 1880s and have been naturalised in Victoria for many decades.
The Indian Myna has been listed by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) as among the world’s 100 worst invasive species.
Controlling the population
Many introduced and some native animals are classed as ‘pests’ because they have a negative impact on the environment or agricultural production.
The RSPCA recognises that in certain circumstances it is necessary to control populations of pest animals in order to reduce their adverse impact on the environment. However, in the case of common mynas there is not general agreement about the need for population control.
We believe that based on current knowledge about the impact and preferred habitat of common mynas, community groups should not be encouraged to try and control myna populations. Rather, in agreement with a number of experts on this issue, efforts to enhance bird diversity in urbanised areas would be better directed to improving the quality of natural habitat. If, however, population control is to be conducted, the RSPCA believes that it should only be carried out as part of a government-supervised program, which includes clear guidelines on humane procedures. We would also encourage that monitoring and assessment of any control programs be undertaken to provide information on any effects of culling on myna bird impacts, not just on myna bird numbers.
More information on the RSPCA’s views on the management of Indian mynas can be found on the RSPCA Australia Knowledgebase.
