Indian Myna Bird

The Indian or common myna is an introduced pest bird and the population is spreading rapidly. They are of concern in Monash because:

  • They are extremely aggressive and territorial birds that out-compete native birds for food, water and shelter
  • They displace native animals from nests (tree hollows)
  • They kill the chicks and eggs of native birds
  • They harass pets and steal their food
  • They block down-pipes and roof gutters with their nests

Please note: Council cannot help you remove or trap Indian myna birds. 

RSPCA research has found that unless trapping and euthanising is a regional, state or national level, the other Myna birds from nearby areas will probably just move into the space vacated. Please refer to this research: What is the RSPCA’s view on the management of myna birds?

To reduce Indian myna numbers:

  • Identify if Indian mynas are in your area
  • Prevent nesting by sealing off entry points to your roof
  • Don’t feed birds in your backyard
  • Remove any myna nests you find
  • Do not leave food outside, and feed pets indoors
  • Use rubbish bins with lids

For more information on Indian mynas, please see the RSPCA website

Create a bush garden

Both Indian Mynas (and native “Noisy Miners”) prefer open spaces and to see the ground, with little undergrowth (big trees and grass). It is our urban environment that has encouraged them to dominate.

A preferred management approach is to encourage more high-density, low planting (shrubs) and undergrowth to discourage these birds from the area and provide a better habitat for the smaller native or threatened birds. Large nest boxes could also be installed to encourage large native predator birds like the Powerful Owl, Kookaburra and Tawny Frog Mouth to move in. 

A bush garden around your home may result in fewer Mynas and be more attractive to a multitude of native birds.

Research has shown that changing the urban habitat for birds and wildlife is the best way to swing the balance back for native birds. Loss of trees and green space (due to development) is the having the most impact on bird species. You may be interested to refer to: What is the RSPCA’s view on the management of myna birds?

We are happy to provide vouchers for residents to get native seedlings for their garden, to create habitat for the local native wildlife and deter Mynas. Please email sustainability@monash.vic.gov.au

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