I have found that Common Mynas here in the
Dandenong Ranges do have their uses. On average, once each spring I have a visit
from an obliging Myna that enters the flue of the Coonara heater via the small
space under the "chinaman's hat". After it has fluttered up and down
for an hour or two and cleaned the flue, the now "Sooty Myna", is
thanked and despatched on his way.
(some details have been changed to protect the
innocent).
More good news on Mynas:
Nesting Mynas have supplied our resident Grey Butcherbirds with fresh prey
during spring. We were surprised at the size of a prefledged Myna that the
Butcherbirds had cached on a twig outside our kitchen window, and drew some
satisfaction watching the family lining up on the branch to receive portions
from a parent.
Ed McNabb
