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Lawrence Golf Club takes on the Mynas

A local trapping program has begun at Lawrence Golf Club to help reduce the rising numbers of the imported Indian Myna birds in the Clarence Valley. The bird was introduced in Melbourne in the late 1860’s from south-east Asia, and a short time later in Cairns. They now have established along the whole east coast and to other parts of the country, including Adelaide, Darwin and Broken Hill. According to Laura Noble, who heads up Conservation in Action, the birds are extremely aggressive and territorial and attack and often kill native wildlife. “We have been encouraging organisations and local residents to help us reduce the numbers of these evasive pests,” she said. “The Lawrence Golf Club has kindly agreed to help us with this program, by placing wire traps around the course.” Other control methods include blocking holes in roofs and eaves, not feeding native birds, including the noisy minor native bird, which is prevalent in the Valley. The breed also harbours exotic types of bird mites, which can cause rashes and asthma. They also out-compete natives for nesting sites and can breed four to six times a year. The Common Indian Myna, which is listed as one of the most invasive birds in the world, has a chocolate body, black head and neck and long yellow legs. The native Noisy Miner has a pale grey body and yellow beak and eye patch. It is a honeyeater and has a limited diet. It also forages for nectar and sap sucking insects. More information is available by contacting Conservation in Action on 6649 4712 or their website mynas@cvcia.org.au.