Introduced predators, such as foxes and cats,have detrimental impacts on a range of native birds, and non-native bird species, such as mynahs and starlings, have demonstrated a capacity to out-compete native species for food and shelter resources.

Predation by feral cats and foxes is a nationally significant threatening process, and is especially detrimental to birds that feed and nest on the ground. Foxes have been implicated in the decline of the bush-stone curlew across the woodlands of south-eastern Australia, and cats are well-known for their ability to capture ground-feeding birds like quail and red-rumped parrots. Cats are also known to climb into tree hollows and other elevated bird nests, completely devouring whole generations of nestlings.

Introduced bird species compete against native species for food resources and nesting space. Of particular concern is the rapidly-expanding population of the Common Myna. This species is an aggressive competitor for nesting space in hollow trees, and will readily dislodge eggs and chicks from the nests of native birds like rosellas and other parrots. Once the eggs or young are ejected from the nest, the mynas will prevent the parent birds from accessing the nest or attempting to breed, even to the point of blocking the nest hollow with plastic bags and other material.

MANAGEMENT OPTIONS:

• Manage introduced predators to reduce predation risks to native birds
• Control or prevent invasion of exotic, competitive bird species

MANAGEMENT ACTIONS:

• Control cat and fox populations with regular baiting and shooting campaigns
• Initiate a strategic feral animal control program in association with your neighbours
• Keep house cats well fed to encourage them to remain in and around the house or farm buildings
• If not employing your cat in rodent control around farm buildings, keep it enclosed in a “cat run” attached to the house
• Take action to remove and prevent the spread of Common Mynas in your area