Indian Myna Birds Trapping Program
Mackay Indian Myna Bird Action Group Trapping Guide
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
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
Survey
Please complete the survey to assist with determining the most effective methods for trapping Indian Myna birds.