Mackay residents are being asked to join the fight against a highly invasive species.
Indian Myna bird numbers are growing in the region, with each mating pair laying up to 15 eggs per year.
The Mackay Indian Myna Bird Action Group (MIMBAG) recently received several traps that were built by members of the Mackay Men’s Shed Inc.
These will be loaned to residents, free of charge, to try and catch as many of the pests as possible and dispose of them.
Birdlife Mackay’s John Morris said now is the time to take action.
“These pests pose significant threats to native bird species, harassing and evicting them from their nests, killing native young and destroying eggs,” Mr Morris said.
“They also pose a significant biosecurity and economic threat to our local agricultural sector and human health.
“What we need now is for members of the community to come along to learn more about how to trap the birds and get involved in our community trapping program.”
Mr Morris has also proposed a bounty for the birds to encourage more people to take part.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said Indian Myna birds have established large populations along Australia’s eastern seaboard.
“Like the canetoad, the species was brought into Australia to try and control insects,” Mayor Williamson said.
“They were then introduced to northern Queensland to try and control pests in sugar plantations,” he said.
The species is a prolific breeder, with each mating pair laying up to 15 eggs per year.
