|
Several weeks ago I reported a myna event here in Nicholls. I had not seen mynas much at all for some months which was quite pleasing, although blackbirds are increasing. Then one day a surprising mixed flock of about 100 ‘pest species’ made a huge commotion
– about 50 mynas, 30 starlings and 20 blackbirds. While the whole flock eventually took off to the north, since then myna numbers have greatly increased here which is a worry.
An interesting but worrying observation is the changed behaviour of the mynahs. When we had a lot here a few years ago, they were mainly encountered in my garden, digging and generally being a nuisance. Although the numbers are now even greater, after
the lull I mentioned, the mynas are behaving more like native woodland birds. They are nesting on Mt Percival and I have seen them diving into Ginninderra Creek to drink (like Red Wattlebirds do) and acrobatically catching insects in the air (like the Flycatchers
and Fantails do.)
This is very anecdotal and unscientific but it worries me that they are showing such adaptive skills.
John
John Harris
Rev Dr John Harris,
36 Kangaroo Close,
Nicholls, ACT 2913
AUSTRALIA
P: 61-(0)2-62418472
E:
|
