DRAFT GUIDE FOR BEST PRACTICE INDIAN MYNA CONTROL

Transcription

1 DRAFT GUIDE FOR BEST PRACTICE IN INDIAN MYNA CONTROL

2 Introduction This guide sets out the current understanding of best practice in the control of Indian Mynas (Acridotheres tristis) across eastern Australia. It draws upon research, knowledge and experience gained over the years by various people and groups, and draws heavily upon the presentations and subsequent discussion at the Southern NSW Regional Indian Myna Conference at Nowra, NSW, on 12 May The guide is written for community groups and local governments that might want to develop programs to reduce Indian Myna numbers. The following provides some background to Indian Mynas, and then proceeds to discusses strategies for reducing their numbers, and the organisational structures that can be set up for this purpose. CHAPTER 1: 1.1 Habitat and distribution THE PROBLEM WITH INDIAN MYNAS Indian Mynas (also called Common Mynas) are native to South and Southeast Asia, but have been introduced to many countries throughout the world. Indian Mynas were introduced to Melbourne in the 1860s, and to Sydney between the 1860s and 1880s. In 1883 they were taken to the north Queensland cane fields in a failed attempt to control the cane beetle. They were also deliberately introduced to Canberra, but only in the 1960s. Mynas are commensal birds, living in close association with humans. They are generally birds of urban areas and of woodlands, and do not generally inhabit eucalypt forests, pine plantations or rainforests. In Australia, Indian Mynas can now be found from western Victoria extending eastwards throughout the rest of Victoria, along eastern NSW and inland as far as Mudgee Tamworth, eastern Queensland and as far north as Cairns. The current distribution is patchy, with large populations in urban areas where food is readily found such as around schools, shopping centres, backyards with domestic pets, outdoor food and dining areas. In south-eastern Australia they were previously much less commonly observed in pastoral areas than other introduced species such as starlings and sparrows. However, that seems to be changing as mynas are now prominent in much of closer-settlement farmland in south-east Australia around dairy farms, horse paddocks, vineyards, orchards and the woodlands and verges of urban areas. 1.2 Biology and ecology Indian Mynas do not migrate, but do extend into new areas, presumably as a result of population pressure. They feed mainly on the ground singly, in pairs or in flocks. They are omnivorous, taking insects, fruit, food scraps and pet 2

3 food, but also birds eggs, nectar and carrion. In some parts of their range they seem to have a strong preference for figs and grapes. At dusk, mynas move to communal roosts. A preference seems to be trees with dense foliage, although they will communally roost in other vegetation as well as man-made structures. Roosting sites include girders under bridges, open roof areas in shopping complexes and large commercial car parks. Roosting flocks can comprise many hundreds of birds, with larger aggregations during colder months. From time to time mynas will change roosting sites without any obvious reason. Indian Mynas reach breeding age after two years. They nest in hollows. In southern Australia they breed from October to March in. Nest sites include tree hollows, holes in rocks, roof cavities in buildings and nest boxes. The nest is an untidy bowl of leaves, twigs, grass, feathers and refuse such as paper, string, plastic or cloth. Usually three or four eggs are laid, and a pair will raise two broods per season. In a good breeding season the clutch may have seven to eight chicks, and a third brood may be raised. They can be long-lived, with banded mynas in New Zealand known to have lived for at least 12 years. 1.3 Known adverse impacts Indian Mynas are a serious environmental threat, a horticultural pest and a major urban nuisance. They also pose a human health risk. Threats Environmental threat Mynas are an environmental threat because they displace native birds at breeding time, disrupt breeding by native birds and prey on endangered insects, reptiles, and smaller native birds. Mynas have been highly successful in displacing native species such as Crimson and Eastern Rosellas, Kookaburras, Red-rumped Parrots, Sugar Gliders and even Brush-Tailed Possums from nest hollows. In urban woodlands areas in the ACT, mynas occupy and defend several nest hollows, although they only lay eggs in one nest, thus reducing the breeding opportunities for native hollow-nesting birds. Mynas also physically displace nesting native birds, destroying eggs and killing chicks and occasionally adults. Research in the ACT in the 1990s indicated that Indian Mynas outcompeted Crimson Rosellas for nesting hollows 50 per cent of the time, and out-competed Eastern Rosellas 100 per cent of the time. Mynas have voracious appetites and commonly feed on insects and small reptiles, some of which are listed as rare and endangered such as the Golden Sun Moth (Synemon plana), the Perunga Flightless Grasshopper (Perunga ochracea), the Coorooboorama Raspy Cricket and the Grassland Earless Dragon in southern New South Wales. 3

4 Horticultural threat Indian Mynas are a threat to various horticultural crops. They, like starlings, attack fruit and reduce its saleable yield. Ripening grapes in vineyards have particular appeal. As such they can cause considerable economic damage. Human health risk Mynas pose a human health risk. They can be heavily infested with bird mites (Ornithonyssus bursa and Dermanyssus gallinae) that can cause a range of diseases in humans such as dermatitis and asthma, as well as cause severe irritation and rashes. Faeces dust from droppings also can carry Ornithosis, Salmonellosis and Arboviruses. Because of their close association with humans, Indian Mynas could be a potential vector for Avian Influenza commonly called bird flu moving from the wild bird population to humans. Urban nuisance Mynas are a significant nuisance to the community. This is due to their fouling of backyard patios, their boldness around shopping centres, outdoor cafes where they will scavenge on tables and schools, and their raucous calls, particularly at dusk at their roosting sites. Their aggression towards family pets can cause considerable distress to those animals and their owners. Mynas have been known to enter houses to access food. Their scrappy nests in roofs of buildings can be a fire risk. Pest classification A worldwide body, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Indian Myna as one of the world s 100 Most Invasive Species, while the Australian National Vertebrate Pests Committee has classified it within its Extreme Threat category. Only two other birds, the common starling to which it is related and the Red-vented Bulbul are listed by the IUCN in this way. Public reaction and opinion There is generally a strong public dislike for Indian Mynas. This can be put down to their environmental impacts, the readily observed increase in their numbers and spread, the presence of flocks in domestic gardens which are blamed for driving smaller birds out, and their general aggression and raucous calls. Public dislike of mynas was revealed in a 2005 Survey by the ABC as part of its Wild Watch programs. The Indian Myna was voted The Most Hated Pest in Australia, beating the cane toad, feral cat and fox. Public reaction in eastern Australia has led to action by numerous voluntary community groups, pressure on local and state governments, the design and manufacture of traps, trapping programs and on-going research and monitoring. CHAPTER 2: CURRENT RESEARCH AND KNOWLEDGE Knowledge of the behaviour of Indian Mynas and their threats come from formal research as well as observations from the community. In fact, much of the knowledge about mynas in Australia is anecdotal, from observations 4

5 from community groups and individuals, as the extent of formal research is limited. A number of Australian research papers are listed in the Attachment. On the other hand, there has been considerable overseas research (see the Global Invasive Species Database In addition to formal academic research programs, numerous local groups and individuals are involved in trials and design modifications aimed particularly at improved trapping. Current research activities and, where available, findings to date are outlined as follows. 2.1 Effectiveness of trapping ANU PhD scholar, Kate Grarock, is undertaking a three year study aimed at quantifying the impact of mynas on Australian native birds in selected Canberra suburbs and the adjacent nature reserves, and the efficacy of community-backyard trapping. The research involves transect surveys and nest boxes surveys across 15 Canberra urban nature reserves in conjunction with two levels of community-based trapping in the suburbs. The project is looking at the abundance, diversity and hollow-nesting success of native birds in relation to the myna. The project commenced in early Studies on trap performance and bait preference Justine Clark of the Blacktown City Council and Ricky Spencer of the University of Western Sydney have been engaged in mapping myna distribution and assessing bait preference and the performance of three different trap designs in various habitat areas throughout the municipality. The studies indicated that the PeeGees trap outperformed the Mini Myna and the Myna X traps. No comparisons were made against the Myna Magnet or other local designs. 2.3 Euthanasia using different gases Chris Tidemann and Daryl King (ANU) have assessed the preferred i.e. the most humane and efficient method of disposing trapped birds. They compared euthanasia by CO2 (carbon dioxide) and CO (carbon monoxide from an internal combustion petrol engine. Their peer-reviewed scientific paper (published the CSIRO Wildlife Research, 2009, 36, pp ) concluded that euthanasia with carbon monoxide from a cold petrol engine is the preferred method. Their paper can be found on the CIMAG website, Trapping mynas at roost trees and at nesting boxes Chris Tidemann (ANU) has trialled two types of trap for catching mynas at their roosts. One involved a trailer-mounted roosting-tree trap for trapping large numbers of mynas in roosting trees. A tall mast was mounted on each trailer and placed either side of a roosting tree with a net suspended between the two, which was released after dark when the mynas were at the roost. The net encased the entire tree. This research concluded that this particular approach was not feasible as the trailer-mounted masts were unstable even 5

6 in mild breezes, and even with very heavy ballast. The other involves the erection of misting nets along the perimeter of a roost site. Chris and Kate Grarock are also trialling a euthanasing technique of mynas at nesting boxes as part of the PhD research project referred to above. 2.5 Mynas as vectors for disease John Yim and Jan Slapeta (University of Sydney) have assessed whether mynas are carriers of a pathogen that is affecting native birds in the Sydney Basin, and the range of other parasites which could impact on both other bird species and humans. This research, albeit limited, did not establish the presence of haemoprotozoa in Indian Mynas sourced from the Canberra region. The study did conclude that Indian Mynas being an invasive species similar to the haemoprotozoa detected may have stronger resistance than native birds. If this is the case, then Indian Mynas may derive a further competitive advantage in increased resistance, and enhance their ability to out-compete native species and further reduce precious biodiversity. 2.6 Murrumbateman vineyards project The Murrumbateman Landcare Group has been investigating different trapping regimes in the Murrumbateman area, particularly in vineyards where Indian Mynas are a threat to grape crops. (The Murrumbateman region is an area of open settlement and small hobby farms with a small urban centre). Given the low and dispersed myna populations over most of the year, continuous trapping only yielded a low capture rate (relative to the hours involved). A strategy of concentrated trapping during the grape ripening months of March and April, when there are more mynas around and greater potential for damage, was undertaken using a variety of trap types and decoy birds. The catch rate was effectively doubled with a reduction in the number of mynas recorded in monthly surveys. 2.7 Trap Avoidance A study into backyard trapping by a Canberra-based trapper, Daryl King, has identified an apparent growing incidence of trap avoidance. This correlates with anecdotal reports from trappers. The reports also suggest that mynas will avoid the backyards where there has been continual trapping, but not necessarily those nearby. Trappers have even reported observing adult mynas teaching juveniles to avoid entering the trap tunnels, by giving a warning call when juveniles started feeding in the tunnels. Trap avoidance has not been reported in suburbs where trapping had not been previously undertaken in those suburbs, high capture rates are recorded. It is not clear as to the triggers for trap avoidance, but there may be a number of reasons. It is likely that Indian Mynas that have escaped or accidentally even deliberately been released from traps have developed a wariness about them. Similarly, observing clan members trapped and unable to escape would be a strong trigger for a wary and cautious bird to avoid 6

7 approaching the trap. Accidental escapes are known to have occurred when trappers are trying to grab birds for transfer to another trap as decoys, or when trappers are trying to grab a bird to dispose of it by cervical dislocation. Also, trappers disposing of birds in sight of free-flying birds would send a clear signal to free birds not to approach the trap or even the area. Trap avoidance, if it becomes a wide-spread feature, has implications for trapping programs. Trapping techniques would need to be adjusted, possibly including intermittent trapping in the expectation that the learned avoidance behaviour would lessen over time. CHAPTER 3: MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES Experience in Canberra and New South Wales attests to the effectiveness of concerted community and government action to reduce Indian Myna numbers 1. The prime elements of any effective management strategy include: a sound understanding of the incidence and implications of Indian Mynas in the local urban environment (see Chapters 1 and 2) public awareness and acceptance of the need to reduce Indian Myna numbers support from local councils (see Chapter 5) concerted efforts to reduce the attractiveness of the urban environment to Indian Mynas an effective method of capture, euthanasia and disposal for Indian Mynas a method of monitoring myna numbers and removals (see Chapter 6). 3.1 Public awareness Public awareness and acceptance of the need to reduce Indian Myna numbers is essential in order to: ensure management efforts are not undermined by negative community reaction to the capture and removal of Indian Mynas elicit active community support in making urban environs less attractive to Indian Mynas as well as in their capture and disposal encourage local councils to support and complement community activity. 3.2 Making urban environs less attractive to Indian Mynas Urban environments provide easily accessible food, breeding and roosting sites for mynas that enable myna numbers to rapidly increase. Making an 1 In 2006, the Garden Bird Survey by Canberra Ornithologists Group s members indicated that Indian Mynas were the 3rd most abundant bird in Canberra. GBS reports show that after CIMAG members started trapping in backyards, mynas dropped to the 9th most abundant bird in Canberra in 2007, to the 12th most abundant bird in 2008, and to the 14th in

8 area less attractive to mynas will help in slowing down their rate of increase. It is an valuable adjunct to a trapping program. Some things people can do to help discourage Indian Mynas are: Clear away food scraps after eating outdoors. Feed pets indoors, or clear away any remaining morsels when they ve finished. Plant native shrubs to reduce open areas in gardens. Avoid planting trees with dense foliage, such as pencil pines, in which mynas will roost at night. Block holes in roofs or eaves to prevent mynas from roosting or nesting make sure you don t accidentally trap a possum, bat or other native species. Restaurants / cafes and shopping centres to keep the covers of waste skips closed. On farms and horse paddocks feed stock only as much as they need, cover the feed bins and clean up any spills. 3.3 Trapping While there may be circumstances where other methods of removal can be effective (e.g. shooting in non-urban areas and netting) the use of small, design-specific metal traps has proved to be highly effective, particularly in the domestic/urban context. Alternative and preferred trap designs A number of manufactured traps (for example Myna Magnet, Mini Myna) are commercially-available. As well there are a range of other traps that have been designed and backyard built by active community groups or individuals that are highly effective. (insert photos). The PeeGees trap has been highly effective in Canberra and is now being built and used by other groups. In NSW, various Men s Sheds are building the trap for use by local community groups. The research trapping trials by the Blacktown City Council and the University of Western Sydney identified the PeeGees trap as out-performing the Mini Myna and the Myna X traps: the larger MynaMagnet was not included in the trials. Plans for the PeeGees trap are available on the website Trapping techniques Unless council approval and support has been obtained, traps should be restricted to private property. This will avoid possible public sensitivity and public liability issues as well as minimise vandalism. The following guidelines listed below should ensure the best trapping outcome. 8

9 1. Place the trap in a relatively open area or where birds already feed. Preferred locations include under power lines and in areas where there is minimal people or animal traffic (such as behind the carport or in the vegetable patch). It is best that there is a clear space around the trap so mynas can see that no cats are lurking nearby. The traps can be under trees, so long as it is clear around the trap. 2. Bait the trap with a food the birds are accustomed to feeding on. Suburban feeding birds are used to pet food as many pet owners leave food out for their pets during the day. Using small dry dog and cat biscuits has been very successful as has VIP pet roll. Wet dog or cat food is not recommended in hot weather as it is likely to attract flies and become smelly. 3. Top-up bait every three or four days to keep it fresh and replace it after rain in order to maintain odour and attractiveness. 4. Do not use cereal or grain-based foods (birdseed and breadcrumbs etc.) as this attracts non-target birds such as crested pigeons and parrots. 5. Put a little loose feed outside the tunnel entrances to attract mynas to the area, in the tunnel, and scattered inside the feeding chamber. Put food in the larger containment chamber for captured birds, and provide fresh water. 6. Loose feeding will attract the birds into your area. You should not over feed outside the trap, as this will not encourage the birds to enter the trap. Use loose feed only to encourage the birds to feed, not to feed them. If magpies, crows or currawongs are in the area it may be best not to put the food outside the tunnel as they will find it and dominate the site, keeping mynas away. 7. It has been found that if you tie a mirror to the inside of the trap on the wall facing a tunnel, this will entice mynas into the trap presumably because they see their reflection and think the trap is safe as another myna is inside. 8. Release any non-target species through door hatches as soon as you can. Never release a myna from the trap or allow one to escape, as it will teach others to avoid the trap. 9. Monitor daily to ensure bait and water are available while trapping. 10. Keep pets (particularly cats) away when trapping as the birds see cats and dogs to a lesser extent as predators and are unlikely to approach the trap. Cats are a particular problem and everything should be done to discourage their presence near the trap. It is thought that even the smell of cats on or around the trap deters mynas from approaching it. 11. Clean the trap by hosing down (if very badly fouled scrub down the trap). Relocate trap if the area becomes soiled from captured birds. 9

10 This avoids trying to trap mynas around their own excrement. Place newspaper or cardboard under the trap if using the trap on paved surfaces to avoid spoiling your pavements. 12. Ensure the containment chamber is covered to provide for relief from extreme weather (this also tends to calm the captive birds). Putting shade cloth over a large portion of the top of the containment chamber and down the sides a little seems to make the trapped birds feel less exposed and less threatened from predators and people. 13. Don t be disappointed if you don t catch birds every day or if it takes some time to achieve your first capture. Mynas are spasmodic in their movements, so persist. They may have moved to another food source in the area but will return if you keep feeding. 14. If you keep a call bird in the containment chamber of your trap, this is likely to encourage others to the trap. This is not essential, however, if you do this you must provide captive birds with food, water and shelter. Do not leave trapped mynas, including decoy mynas, in the trap beyond a couple of days be very aware of animal welfare aspects. 15. Use gloves when handling live or dead birds as wild birds may carry disease. 16. If you are trapping in the ACT you should abide by the CIMAG Protocol on Animal Welfare which has been cleared by the ACT RSPCA. Dealing with trapped birds It is essential that captured birds are disposed of in the quickest, most painless and stress-free manner. Acceptable euthanasing methods include gassing with carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide, as well as injection by a trained operative such as a vet or RSPCA ranger. Cervical dislocation (breaking their necks) is only acceptable when it is undertaken by a competent practitioner and involves instantaneous death with minimal handling of the bird. (In general, the recommendation is that trappers do not adopt this method as it can be stressful to the birds in the trap and can allow birds to escape). Based on analysis undertaken by Dr Chris Tidemann of the Australian National University and Daryl King 2 the use of carbon monoxide is the 2 Recent research by Tidemann and King comparing euthanasia by carbon dioxide (CO2) from a cylinder of industrial grade gas and carbon monoxide from a petrol car (CO) has been published in Wildlife Research magazine, Their research found that use of car exhaust from a cold petrol car is the preferred method of euthanasia: it proved to be quicker with no obvious signs of distress by the birds compared to the use of carbon dioxide. Another important factor is that car exhaust is readily available while the use of carbon dioxide is expensive, requiring high set-up costs (hire of cylinder, fit out with regulator and high pressure hose). 10

11 preferred method of disposing of trapped birds. However, it should be noted that at the time of preparing this guide some jurisdictions (such as NSW) do not support this method and insist on the use of carbon dioxide. It is hoped that the recent research findings will provide the basis for a change in this view. When using carbon monoxide: 1. It is essential that the engines of cars fitted with catalytic converters are completely cold (i.e. have not been used for several hours, preferably overnight). 2. Place the containment chamber with the trapped birds in a nearairtight bag or box. 3. Connect a grey water hose or other suitable diameter pipe from the car exhaust pipe into the bag or box. Pack some rag around the exhaust pipe to minimise leakage. 4. Run the cold car for a minute or so. 5. If birds are not unconscious within seconds and dead within seconds review the above process (possible problems could be that the engine is not cold or there is too much leakage between the car exhaust and the myna container). Alternatively, it may be possible to arrange for a local vet, council and/or RSPCA centre to dispose of birds at nil or minimal cost. Disposal of dead birds Bird carcasses should be disposed of in a hygienic and environmentally sound manner. Subject to council regulations, possible options to dispose of dead birds include: double bag and place in domestic garbage (this is essentially no different than discarding chicken or meat offcuts and scraps from the kitchen) bury in backyard (birds break down very quickly in soil). CHAPTER 4: POSSIBLE MANAGEMENT STRUCTURES FOR INDIAN MYNA CONTROL Public concern about Indian Mynas has stimulated interest in recent years to reduce its numbers. These efforts generally fall into four broad categories: individual solo effort by members of the public local government managed programs local government-facilitated community-based programs community-led action through community groups. As mynas are now widespread across the urban landscape and into urban reserves and nearby woodlands a concerted, concentrated, coordinated and 11

12 sustained action is needed to have a long term impact on their numbers. Ideally, action needs to be at the household, commercial and government level so that the whole area is adequately covered. The activities that need to be undertaken include raising public awareness; educating the community; reducing the opportunities for mynas to feed, breed and roost; capture and disposal activities; monitoring and research (discussed in Chapter 3). There are several ways councils can respond to the community expectation for action. One way is through a dedicated and totally funded local government managed control program, while a second way is facilitation and support for community-action. What is clear is that a no action approach is no longer likely to be acceptable to ratepayers. A brief analysis of the possible management structures follows. 4.1 Individual solo effort While there will always be individuals who will be proactive in dealing with environmental threats, a solo effort is likely to only ever have an impact at the margin. Nonetheless, such efforts should be applauded where they are soundly based, practical and are having some success. Moreover, individual action can play a role in promoting broader community participation by providing an example of success. While individuals acting alone can play some role in tackling Indian Mynas at a backyard level, greater success and impact will be achieved when people act together. 4.2 Local government managed programs Local governments are well placed to undertake myna reduction programs. Informed and environmentally-aware local government officers have access to resources and knowledge which means the problem can be approached in a systematic and holistic manner. Moreover, as the closest level of government to the community, they are generally seen by the public as the point for action in dealing with local issues. Public awareness and education Local governments have advantages in spreading information to the public about the problems caused by mynas and what the council and public are doing or can do about it. Some of the ways include: including brochures and pamphlets about mynas in with the quarterly rate notices to ratepayers having posters and brochures in the reception areas of council offices holding information workshops, particularly with environmentally conscious local groups, such as Bushcare and Landcare groups, local bird-watching and gardening groups have a week dedicated to raising community awareness of the environment, with information about mynas a part of that 12

13 including information about mynas on the environmental section of the council s website, with links to other myna-control information sites. Control activities The noise from mynas congregating in large roosts in the evening; the fouling of backyards, shopping centres and schools; and the perceived environmental and health threat posed by mynas will generally mean that local government will be under pressure to respond to the community s concerns. As well, raising public awareness about the threats posed by mynas will inevitably lead to community expectations of control actions. Many local governments are very active with their own dedicated control problems and there is quite an array of things that are and can be done. These include: Requiring sound waste management practices by restaurants and shopping centres so that mynas do not have easy access to food scraps. This can be by way of requiring those businesses to ensure the lids of their waste skips are shut so that mynas cannot scavenge in there for food waste Introducing myna-proof rubbish bins these bins do not allow mynas to scavenge for food scraps (see photo) Block up gaps into the roof cavity of local government buildings so that mynas do not nest in there. Amend building regulations relating to commercial buildings to require the installation of anti-bird roosting spikes on places where mynas might otherwise be able to roost under cover. This also is relevant for pigeons. Undertaking their own trapping program on council-owned property. A particularly successful effort has been that of the Tamworth Regional Council at their waste centre, where a trapping program has significantly reduced the number of mynas and starlings in the area. Developing and supporting a community trapping program undertaken by council officers or contracted out, with council-owned traps being rotated gratis to interested members of the community or provided to hire companies. Operating a trap hire or lease arrangement for community trappers and commercial businesses. Holding trap-building workshops for interested community groups. Engaging commercial pest bird management companies to target specific location myna roosts hot spots with avi-paste poison. As myna faecal dust/droppings can be a health hazard, it is important to ensure that myna numbers are minimised around schools, shopping centres, hospitals and food factories/warehouses. Until the use of car exhaust is accepted as the more humane method of euthanasia of pest birds (see Chapter 5.5), establishing CO2 euthanasing 13

14 centres for community trappers so that myna disposal is humanely carried out quickly, painless and stress-free. In rural areas, netting and shooting of myna roost sites. Shooting can be a very effective control measure in rural areas where the myna density is low. It is important that a landscape-scale approach be taken to myna control in metropolitan areas. Activity in one council district will be diminished if the adjacent councils are not undertaking similar control activities. Monitoring and research Local governments are also well located to support monitoring and research efforts. Council officers, whilst undertaking a range of outside duties, are well placed to notice myna behaviour, particularly nesting and roosting sites which can be recorded for subsequent direct action by the council or by community groups. Legal liability The question of legal liability arose during discussions at the Southern NSW Regional Indian Myna Control Conference at Nowra on 12 May The discussion was held in the context of the possible exposure of local government in supporting local community action. It is covered when discussing local government-facilitated community-based action programs below. 4.3 Local government-facilitated community-based programs This approach sees local government and community groups act in a collaborative way to undertake a control program. This model has many advantages. It reduces the high financial impost (and possibly legal liability) on local government, but has a high impact because of the involvement of many local people. Local government facilitates and supports community activity, but some of the high cost aspects of myna control staff time and trap ownership and operation are foregone by the council. Community groups can perform those tasks, and generally with a higher level of intensity than is able to be provided by local government acting alone. In this approach, called here the Shoalhaven Model, local governments initiate the activity by facilitating the establishment of a community-action group, supporting and coordinating initial activity and providing public credibility and education materials. The community role is in trapping, helping to establish and then maintaining the network of community groups, raising public awareness, and data collation and monitoring. Based on the approach by the Shoalhaven City Council in establishing the integrated council-community Shoalhaven Model, the respective roles of the local government and the community groups are as follows. Local government collate the names and addresses of people contacting the council to express their concern about Indian Mynas 14

15 develop, publish and disseminate various public information and education materials identify and contact relevant existing groups in the community who have an interest in environmental and conservation activities about a prospective myna control program advertise and hold a public meeting of people interested in participating in a myna control program establishing a network of coordinators across the local government area (LGA) (in the case of rural council, one for each town, village, district in the LGA), drawn from interested people from the data base of callers to the council, existing community groups and people attending the public information meeting. The contact by the council is subsequently only then with the coordinators of the local community-action groups. The council facilitator subsequently then refers callers to their local community coordinator (this avoids what could otherwise be a timeconsuming and duplicative effort) training coordinators and assisting them in establishing their own local community-action group develop model protocols on animal welfare, on trap management and disposal for adoption by community-action groups organise an initial trap-building workshop to train the community-action group members on how to make traps. After initial training, Men s Sheds and other such groups can be a ready source of traps to members of the various community-action groups across the LGA. provide a contact point within council for community-action group support, as needed. This is to be someone who is able to respond to various enquiries by the coordinators on the program. provide facilities across the LGA for the humane euthanasia of trapped mynas and their disposal, and train a number of community-action group members who can then operate the facility (such facilities are only needed if there is a restriction on the use of car exhaust for euthanasia). Community-action group role The community-action group is responsible for trapping the community group members make, own and operate the traps collates capture data, and generates and sustains community involvement. It can also undertake monitoring and survey work. the coordinators, with the initial assistance from the local government officer, set up community-action groups once established, the community-action groups promote the cause of myna control through public speaking, distribution of pamphlets, displays at markets etc. 15

16 the coordinators and community-action groups develop and maintain a network with the other groups across the LGA build and distribute traps. In a number of areas, Men s Sheds or other such groups, build and sell traps. The council might also run a trap lending/hiring program with traps owned by the council. However, the success of household trapping programs rests heavily on high numbers of traps being operated across the community. For this to occur traps need to be low cost and easy to operate. The various hand-made traps that are now around (e.g. PeeGees trap) are relatively easy to make and cheap, thereby allowing community-action groups or Men s Sheds to make them in high numbers. collate capture data the coordinator to liaise with the council contact officer as needed on control matters. This division of responsibilities enables a control program to be set and operated at low cost to the council but with potentially high impact, depending on the enthusiasm of the community organisation. The Shoalhaven Model is a very efficient and effective structure for a myna control program. It takes advantages of the strengths of both the local government and of a community-action group. This approach is now working very effectively in the Hawkesbury, Eurobodalla, Wingecarribee and Tweed Heads areas. 4.4 Community-led action through community groups An alternative to the integrated council/community Shoalhaven Model is community-led action through a stand-alone community group. The Canberra Indian Myna Action Group Inc is an example of this model. In this structure, the group is set up by interested members of the public without the initial instigation, facilitation or coordination from local or state governments. In this regard, it is set up and operates just like many other community groups. Once established as a community-action group, the group and its members accept responsibility for all aspects of the myna control program public awareness and education, trapping and euthanasia, and promotion. The above three management structures each have particular advantages. The choice of approach will depend on the interest in the issue by local government staff or community members. In some circumstances, local government may need to take the lead to stimulate community interest, while in other cases members of the community with a profound interest in the natural environment may take the initiative. Irrespective of the initial starting point, it is bound to be the case that the results will be better if the community and the government are of the same mind as to the need for concerted action. 16

17 CHAPTER 5: ACTION ORGANISING AND SUPPORTING COMMUNITY 5.1 Elements of a successful community group There are a number of aspects of community action that are important in getting the movement operating, and in giving it public credibility while raising its profile. These are discussed below. The community-action approach is based on wide-scale public participation. Establishing public credibility Public credibility is critical for such a community program. It is also important that the community group s activities are seen as soundly based and humane. In this regard, it is important that the group: develop a Protocol on Animal Welfare that trappers are required to sign and abide by (see the CIMAG Protocol as an example via ) provide clear instructions on trap use and management (see the CIMAG Trapping Help Sheet as an example) require trappers to use a disposal method that is humane quick, painless and stress-free (discussed in Chapter 5). Building public acceptance To achieve public support and acceptance, it is valuable for the group to build networks with important organisations and prominent people. For example: the RSPCA university researchers and ecologists birdwatcher groups, gardening groups Rotary, Lions, Probus clubs the local and state government agencies other environmental community groups such as Landcare/Bushcare and Catchment Management groups. Building an alliance with such prominent people and groups gives the movement public credibility and public acceptance. Raising public awareness A program of awareness-raising will increase public understanding that Indian Mynas are a serious environmental threat to native wildlife, pose some human health risk and are a major social amenity nuisance. It will also tap into the latent public loathing of mynas. A program of public awareness raising can involve: the distribution of pamphlets, brochures, posters 17

18 the use of local media newspaper articles, radio and TV (this is easier for country towns and non-capital cities where there are local papers and local radio and TV stations) high profile champions, especially locally-known environmentalists and community leaders public presentations to other community groups a website regular information bulletins (the HIMAG Flyer by the Hawkesbury Indian Myna Action Group) and the Myna Matters Bulletin produced by CIMAG are examples). Keys to large-scale participation To be successful in substantially reducing Indian Myna numbers, a community-action program needs a large number of active participants. For this to occur on an on-going basis means that participants need to have: a sense of worth in the activities a feeling that they are making a contribution. Members and prospective members need to believe their actions and that of the group will make a difference. Many will need to see results before committing themselves to the effort. To respond to this the group should: publicise its successes and that of other groups provide regular feedback to members and the community through newsletters warn of the experience elsewhere where nothing had been done to reduce myna numbers. On the practical side, to get large-scale participation by the community in the program, the program activities need to: be easy, practical and low-cost complicated and costly obligations on participants are a turn-off involve simple, effective, easy-to-operate traps be based on members owning and managing their own trap have a disposal method that is simple (but quick, painless and stressfree for the birds) and non-confronting for the trapper. Sustaining a community group Community groups generally tend to have a high membership turnover, and the same can be expected for an Indian Myna action group. While many people in the group will maintain an interest in what the group is doing, once they have removed the mynas from their local area or reduced their numbers to a bearable level many can be expected to stop active 18

19 participation. To maintain group viability it is important that the group undergo a program of continuous recruitment. Community group administration Furthermore, to assist the group in maintaining the enthusiasm of the hard core of the people who inevitably serve on the committee, it is essential that there is a low administration load on the organisation. 5.2 Importance of local government support From the viewpoint of public credibility and public acceptance of the activities of community-action groups, it is important that the local council and, as appropriate, state and territory governments are supportive of the program. It is of considerable advantage to the community-action group in being able to point to local government support or assistance with funding or euthanasia in response to any criticisms or public disquiet about the activities of the group. 5.3 Coordinating community action The coordinator of the integrated local government-community groups and the committee of the community-action groups have an important function in coordinating the activities of members of the action group so that they are part of a concerted program. While most members of the community groups will undertake their trapping activities alone in their backyards, it is important that all members have a sense of belonging to the group and understand their responsibility to abide by the group s Protocol on Animal Welfare and its broader strategy. This helps to avoid any criticism of the group because someone is not acting humanely, et cetera. 5.4 Trap building An advantage of a community-action group over council-alone activity is the sheer numbers of people that can be engaged in a trapping program. As mentioned in Chapter 3, commercial traps are available. While many of these such as Myna Magnet and Mini Myna are very effective, they are likely to be outside the financial capacity of most members of community-action groups. Accordingly, there needs to be a way of providing low-cost traps to members. There are a couple of traps that can be readily made at low-cost: the PeeGees trap is one (its plan is available on the CIMAG website). The options for producing low cost myna traps can be: community-group working bees Men s Sheds or such facilities institutions (e.g. gaols). Community groups are well placed to hold trap building working bees where a number of people can be skilled up to make traps. With the materials used in the PeeGees trap being wire mesh available from hardware stores (best to check prices as there can be a wide variation) it is possible to mass produce 19

20 traps for a very low cost. (The all-up cost of materials for the PeeGees trap can be as low as $15 per trap if materials are bought in bulk 30m rolls of mesh, cable ties in 1000 packets from electrical supply stores). An approach that is worth following is for a group of people to make up the shell of the trap as that requires a limited range of skills and can be turned into a social occasion and for the fit-out to be undertaken by a group of four or five people who have developed particular skills in an assembly-line process. This ensures the quality of the overall trap is maintained. Alternatively, in NSW the Men s Sheds are a very good source of traps. A number of Men s Shed have designed simple-to-use traps and continue to experiment and modify plans. They can mass produce traps at low cost. Other such groups might be able to do the same for a community myna trapping program. A third source of low cost traps can be correctional services, i.e. gaols or such like institutions. This also provides an opportunity for inmates to learn skills and develop a greater sense of self-worth. The Alexander Maconochie Centre (the ACT Gaol) now builds traps for the local community-action group. The materials and tools are supplied by the community group and the inmates provide free labour. 5.5 Euthanasia and disposal For a community-action program to become embedded in the community, there also needs to be a simple and cheap method of disposing of trapped birds. It is also important for the credibility of the community group that trapped birds are disposed of in a manner that is acceptable by the general public. The disposal method must be humane, meeting the principles of being quick, painless and stress-free. (See Chapter 3) Until such time as the use of carbon monoxide is accepted as the standard euthanasia method by state branches of the RSPCA and by state government departments, an alternative is for local government to provide euthanasia facilities at their depots for the use of trained members of community groups. This would reduce the costs to the community groups. 5.6 Public information and awareness raising As discussed in previous chapters, public information and awareness raising is part and parcel of the activity of community-action groups to garner community support and to recruit members. Chapter 4.4 outlined a number of measures that community-action groups can undertake to promote the campaign. It is true that a number of these measures radio, TV and press coverage can be more easily undertaken outside the main metropolitan cities. 5.7 Accessing grants programs State and federal governments often have grant programs for which Indian Myna control activity would be eligible under the theme of protecting biodiversity or building community capacity. These can be a source of funds 20

21 to enable the community group to develop publications, pamphlets etc. and to purchase materials for trap building etc. Similarly, local governments might have specific community grant programs that relate to a particular theme. As well, a number of corporations have programs of funding support to community groups, where those groups are undertaking work that fits with the corporation s sense of corporate citizenship. Groups are encouraged to explore those opportunities. CHAPTER 6: MONITORING 6.1 Recording captures and monitoring With any trapping program, it is important for groups to question effectiveness over time, and particularly to ask the following questions: Is the program leading to a long term reduction in myna populations? Is there a beneficial increase in the presence or abundance of desirable native species, or a reduction in other undesirable impacts of mynas? Has the program led to an increase in the populations of other pests such as starlings or sparrows? Definitive answers to these questions are particularly difficult, as bird numbers can fluctuate wildly over time, due to a wide range of factors (season, weather, abundance of food, breeding etc.) and normal nomadic movements within their range. Survey methods The simplest monitoring program is a garden survey, in which people record the highest number of birds (in this case mynas) seen at any one time each week within a radius of 100 metres of their backyard (or work site etc.). This survey is very easy for any person to do and does not require great effort or travel and is very convenient. It is easy to set up and to manage. In a range of monitoring programs being undertaken in major landscape experiments at Jervis Bay, the Central Highlands, the Riverina and several sites in the ACT, carefully designed surveys use skilled bird observers recording at predetermined sites or transects for fixed times. Each survey is repeated by a second observer, usually on another day. Similar surveys are then carried out at regular intervals (two-monthly, quarterly, or annually). Such rigor (together with a great deal of statistical analysis) is essential to detect significant differences or changes over time in populations against the background noise. The latter approach does involve a greater level of bird knowledge and skill and hence may not be appropriate for all groups. Irrespective of the method, it is important to realise that short term results which may appear to show a trend may be influenced by random factors. Recording captures Recording capture numbers has a number of benefits. 21