Indian Myna Acridotheres tristis History, ecology and threat to Australian biodiversity

History and species facts First introduced into Australia in Victoria, between 1863-1872 into Melbourne’s market gardens to control insects Now found along the east coast of Australia and steadily pushing north and west Is a native to Asia Introduced and pest in Canada, North America, Africa, Europe, Middle East, Pacific and Atlantic islands

Ecology Pairs mate for life, roost communally. Open woodland/fragmented landscape adaptive species. Hollow nester – uses tree hollows, nest boxes, cracks in walls, under eaves etc. Thrives in urban and agricultural landscapes. Can breed continuously. Large clutch size (4-6 eggs), incubation 17-18days, fledging is 22 to 24 days (rapid). Omnivorous – eats insects, grain, fruit, household waste etc. Highly aggressive around nest and roosting sites.

Threats to biodiversity World Species Survival Commission lists Indian myna’s as a top 100 world’s most invasive species that pose a threat to biodiversity, agriculture and human activity. Reduces and displaces native hollow nesters, by up to 80% in some areas, thus reducing native species reproductive rates and impacting on ecosystem function. Impacts on cropping areas, spreads bird lice and has potential to carry and spread zoonotic diseases (human).

What can you do? Protect and enhance native habitat i.e. enhance biodiversity Remove and discourage myna nesting and communal roosting sites Support local council and community eradication programs Community education and awareness programs