Top 100
Most invasive species
6 eggs
Per clutch (2-3x/yr)
1860s
Introduced to AUS
Not
Protected in ACT
The Indian myna (Acridotheres tristis) is one of Canberra’s most problematic pest birds. Ranked among the world’s top 100 most invasive species, they aggressively displace native birds, damage properties, and create hygiene problems.
Originally introduced to Australia in the 1860s to control insect pests in Melbourne’s market gardens, the Indian myna has since spread across eastern Australia and established large populations throughout the ACT. In Canberra, they’re particularly concentrated in urban and suburban areas where they exploit human food sources, waste, and building structures for nesting. Their aggressive territorial behaviour drives out native species like rosellas, parrots, and sugar gliders from tree hollows and nesting boxes.
The Canberra Indian Myna Action Group (CIMAG) has been actively working to reduce populations since 2006, but the birds remain abundant across the territory. Their success in urban environments comes from their adaptability — mynas eat virtually anything, nest in any cavity (natural or man-made), and breed prolifically with 2-3 clutches of 4-6 eggs per year. For individual homeowners, the most effective approach combines physical exclusion to prevent nesting access with habitat modification to make your property less attractive.
Identification: Indian Myna vs Noisy Miner
Critical: Don’t confuse these species!
Indian Myna (PEST — not protected)
- Brown body with black head
- Yellow eye patch, beak, and legs
- White wing patches visible in flight
- Walks confidently on the ground
- Aggressive, noisy, often in pairs
Noisy Miner (NATIVE — protected)
- Grey body overall
- Yellow-green eye patch
- Black bill (not yellow)
- More arboreal (lives in trees)
- Lives in larger family groups
Problems Caused by Indian Mynas
Environmental
- Displace native birds from nesting hollows
- Destroy native bird eggs and chicks
- Outcompete for food resources
- Reduce local biodiversity
Property
- Nest in wall cavities and roof spaces
- Block gutters with nesting materials
- Carry bird mites into homes
- Droppings damage and stain buildings
- Noise nuisance (dawn and dusk)
- Contaminate outdoor dining areas
Effective Control Methods
Block Nesting Access
High
Seal wall cavities, roof gaps, and eave openings with mesh or bird-proof strips. Mynas need cavity access to nest — removing this eliminates the problem.
Remove Food Sources
High
Don’t leave pet food outdoors. Secure rubbish bins. Clean outdoor dining areas. Avoid feeding any birds — it attracts mynas.
Bird Spikes & Deterrents
Moderate
Install spikes on favourite roosting spots like TV antennas, ridge caps, and fences. Prevents comfortable perching.
Trapping Programs
Moderate
The Canberra Indian Myna Action Group (CIMAG) offers trap loans. Place near feeding sites. Requires ongoing effort.
Habitat Modification
Moderate
Thin dense shrubs where mynas roost. Plant native species that attract native birds. Remove sources of standing water.
Professional Indian Myna Control
Complete exclusion and deterrent solutions for Canberra properties. We identify entry points, seal cavities, and install lasting deterrents.
Still have questions?
The best pest control company will solve your issue for a long time. Bugs Patrol is Canberra’s trusted choice for professional Indian myna control with lasting results.
Indian Myna Problem?
Professional exclusion and deterrent solutions. Protect your property and support native wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Indian mynas are classified as a pest species in the ACT and can be legally trapped and removed. However, the native Noisy Miner is protected — ensure correct identification first.
They displace native birds, nest in wall and roof cavities causing damage, carry bird mites and diseases, create noise, and foul buildings with droppings.
Block nesting access, remove food sources, install bird spikes, and use traps. The Canberra Indian Myna Action Group offers trap loans.
Indian mynas (pest): brown body, black head, yellow eye patch/beak/legs. Noisy Miners (native, protected): grey body, yellow-green eye patch, black bill.
