Peter and others,
I wonder about being surprised. There is
no shortage of Crimson Rosellas, King-Parrots, S-c Cockatoos and Galahs in Canberra (as shown by GBS data), even considering the abundance of Indian
Mynas. These species have all increased dramatically in abundance in Canberra during the
time that the Myna has become established and become very common. The world is
full of species that survive very well in spite of the presence of predators and
competitors of all sorts. Is it proven that competition for nest sites has increased?
The increase in Mynas has also been matched by a decrease in Starlings,
Dollarbirds, Kookaburras (as shown by GBS data). So
that can also impact on Boobooks. And then one Powerful Owl could significantly
reduce nest site competition from Sugar Gliders.
These are all potential nest competitors with Boobooks.
Besides, I’d suggest that the abundance of Indian
Mynas gives rise to a potential nice extra food source for Boobooks.
-----Original Message-----
From: Peter Ormay
[]
Sent: Sunday, 18 January 2009 12:00 PM
To: Damien Farine;
Subject: Re: [canberrabirds]
Boobook Fledgies - Kaleen
I'm surprised that Boobooks managed
to rear chicks in the area considering the abundance of Indian Mynas there,
especially across the Barton Hwy from Kaleen in the Gungahlin Hill Nature
Reserve. It is probably only a matter of time before they are displaced
by the mynas.
Is there anyone in Burnett St/
Nambecca St area who would be happy to operate a trap or have someone operate a
trap in their yard?
