2021-06-21
Minister for Environment Rebecca Vassarotti announced today the Indian Myna, also known as the Common Myna, is now considered a prohibited pest animal under the Pest Plants and Animals Act 2005.
“It is vital that we protect our unique biodiversity from devastating environmental impacts, including from invasive species such as Indian Mynas, which are widespread throughout eastern Australia and are well established across Canberra,” Minister Vassarotti said.
“Declaring Indian Mynas as a prohibited pest animal under the Act will allow local groups like the Canberra Indian Myna Action Group to continue their work in keeping populations under control, while protecting our local native biodiversity. The Act also prohibits the keeping, breeding, sale or release of the birds within the ACT.
“These birds are listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s list of the 100 most invasive species in the world, having a significant impact on native populations. They are very aggressive and intelligent, known to evict native birds such as kookaburras and parrots from their nests, dumping out their eggs and even killing their chicks.
“In urban habitats, they are considered a threat to the long-term survival of native birds and other animals like the sugar glider, which depend on tree hollows for survival.
“They are also known carriers of diseases such as avian flu, with the potential to spread fatal diseases to native birds and cause harm to domestic animals and even humans.
“I would like to extend my thanks to the Canberra Indian Myna Action Group and other community groups who have gathered information on effective, humane and long-term control methods of Indian Mynas for several decades.
“The ACT will continue to work with community groups like the Canberra Indian Myna Action Group and the Australian National University to investigate and research more effective management methods.”
Learn more about the Indian Myna on the ACT Environment website.