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Common myna's journey from pest control to invasive species in Australia
Photo: The Times of India
2026-07-21 14:32   Environment   10

Common myna's journey from pest control to invasive species in Australia

The common myna, originally brought to Melbourne in 1862 as a biological control agent for crop pests, has since become one of the world’s most notorious invasive bird species.

Initially introduced to manage agricultural damage caused by native birds, the myna's adaptability and rapid reproduction led to its proliferation across Australia.Today, it is among only three avian species listed in the global top 100 worst invasive species.

The bird's aggressive behavior, ability to thrive in diverse habitats, and competition with native wildlife have raised significant ecological concerns.Conservationists highlight that the myna's impact includes displacing indigenous birds, altering ecosystems, and posing threats to biodiversity.Efforts to control its population involve trapping, public awareness campaigns, and strict regulations on pet trade.

The case of the common myna underscores the unintended consequences of introducing non-native species for pest management, serving as a cautionary tale for ecological interventions worldwide.

Full reading at The Times of India

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