Indian Myna Birds Trapping Program

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Mackay Indian Myna Bird Action Group Trapping Guide

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Trap Placement

  • Place traps in areas where you’ve seen Indian Myna birds feeding, ideally open flat areas.
  • Use private property only, place traps in open areas with minimal traffic.
  • Avoid being seen attending traps; birds learn to associate danger.
  • Trap stability: Use pegs/bricks to secure traps.

Baiting Strategies

  • Consider placing a small amount of loose bait outside the trap entrances to lure the birds in, then place a larger amount in the feeding chamber where they can see it.
  • Use pet food like dry dog/cat biscuits. Avoid bread and grains.
  • Red-colored dog/cat food is preferable.
  • Change food every 24 hours.
  • Change food after rain.
  • Make sure there are no other food sources like pet bowls or open garbage available, as this will encourage them to enter the trap.

Bird Caller Use

  • Highly effective; access to call on the Mackay Indian Myna Bird Action Group Facebook page.
  • Alternatively, use this link - ssaa.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/SSAA-member-shares-Indian-myna-bird-decoy.mp3

Trap Maintenance

  • Rinse out the trap before use. Indian Myna birds have a sensitive smell.
  • Report any trap issues or damages to Mackay Regional Council - 1300 MACKAY (622 529).

Handling and Ethics

  • Use gloves when handling birds.
  • When removing the birds through the trap door, be careful of the sharp edges.
  • Traps must be inspected daily.
  • You must provide birds with adequate food and water.
  • There must be enough room in the trap to allow the birds to stretch their wings freely. If there is overcrowding, pause trapping and empty the cage.
  • Release non-target species gently; avoid stressing trapped birds.
  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling birds.

Euthanising

  • Always wear gloves.
  • Trapped Indian Myna birds must be euthanised humanely.
  • Preferred method – cervical dislocation (neck breaking), this must kill the birds instantly.
  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling the birds.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t approach traps when birds are nearby.
  • Best trapping times are dawn and dusk.
  • Seasonality: September - February is peak trapping season.
  • Community Engagement: Notify neighbours.
  • Report sightings to Myna Scan

Contact details

> Mackay Indian Myna Action Group Facebook page

> MIMBAG4740@outlook.com

SURVEY

Please complete the survey to assist with determining the most effective methods for trapping Indian Myna birds.

> Survey link

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