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As our native wildlife struggles to survive the shortage of housing and food, feral animals also have an impact on them.   

It is not only cats and dogs, but other species such as Indian Myna birds that reduce the populations of native species.

Anyone observing Indian Myna birds in their area are asked to contact the Customer Service of the local council.  

Trapping can be done to avoid the takeover of habitat by this very invasive species.

 It must be remembered that the feral species, the Indian Myna sometimes called Common Myna, is chocolate brown in colour, whereas our native  species, the Noisy Miner, is grey in colour.  

The easiest way to remember this is – Grey Good, Brown Bad!

Our noisy miners can be annoying but they don’t do the damage that the Indian Myna does.  

A fellow-WILVO and Coolum resident sent me a photo of chicks and  an  egg from one of her trees.  

The Indian Mynas evict pale-headed rosellas and rainbow and scaley-breasted lorikeets from the eucalypt hollow every year.  

She said it is very distressing to see on an annual basis.  

Removing the Indian Myna eggs also makes her feel bad, but we do have to prioritize with our native animals.  

Sometimes it seems that everything is on a damage and destroy mission of our unique Australian fauna.

With Christmas time approaching, nest boxes for birds and marsupials are a great gift.  

Suburban yards house a variety of  wildlife, often not seen, and they are always seeking homes.  

It is a joy to share the garden with so many different animals.  

Growing a variety of native grasses, shrubs and trees soon brings a myriad of life to the backyard.

Wishing everyone  a wonderful Christmas with family and friends, and I hope that 2021 be a very healthy and happy year for you all.

Donna Brennan Wildlife Volunteers Assoc Inc (WILVOS) PO Box 4805 Sunshine Coast Mail Centre  Q  4560  PH  5441 6200  www.wilvos.org.au