Eliminating Indian mynas in the Clarence Valley

Published on 11 March 2021

Sometimes called flying cane toads or rats with wings, the Indian myna has been threatening the natural biodiversity of the Clarence Valley since the seventies.

Territorial birds with a tendency to attack and kill native wildlife, they nest in tree hollows, driving out native animals by killing their young and ejecting the parents.

These prolific breeders will also nest under roofs, in gutters, sheds and often bring with them mites that can cause skin rashes and asthma.

There are several control programs in place across the Clarence Valley to try and eliminate them from the area, and there are a few ways you can help control the spread too.

Get involved in our trapping program

The Clarence Valley trapping program uses non-lethal traps to specifically target Indian mynas. Identification between the native and Indian myna is essential when controlling these introduced birds.

So far Landcare volunteers (with council support) have removed more than 19,000 Indian mynas have been removed from the Clarence Valley LGA since 2011. If you’d like to get involved, email the CVCIA at mynas@cvcia.com.au or ask at the Clarence Valley Council offices. 

 You can also visit www.cvcia.com.au for more Indian Myna information such as identification and up to date tallies, etc.

Reduce available food sources

·       Don’t leave pet food outside, feed pets indoors where possible or remove leftovers.

·       Refrain from feeding native birds, especially when Indian mynas are around.

·       Put all food scraps in a covered bin, especially in picnic areas, school grounds and sporting ovals.

·       Prevent access to poultry and stock feed wherever possible.