How to Get Rid of Myna Birds

Myna birds are a gardener's friend, eating all varieties of bugs.

Myna birds, also known as Indian starlings, were introduced to other parts of the world in the 1800s for pest control. They arrived in Florida in the 1980s, and are rapidly spreading in the wild. Although good for gardens, they are so noisy, exhibiting voracious loud chatter and cries, that they are considered a nuisance by many.

Instructions

1. Cover outside dryer vents and any exposed crevices. Mynas will nest in any crevice on a house--such as a gutter, vent or eavespout--laying three to eight eggs. If nests are found, preferably before eggs are laid, remove them to discourage the mynas from nesting in your yard.

2. Eliminate water sources in the yard that will encourage birds to stay. Mynas enjoy bathing more than other birds, and are drawn to bird baths or other standing water.

3. Hang highly reflective materials in the yard to get rid of myna birds. This can include aluminum pie tins, Mylar balloons or "scare tape," which reflects light and makes a sound. Hang it around the yard to discourage birds. It can be purchased at stores that specialize in wild bird food.

4. Use a special product called a "scare balloon" to get rid of myna birds. This product has an extremely large "eye" drawn in the center of the balloon in black, white or yellow (with yellow being more effective in studies). Filled with helium, the balloons can be suspended in the yard and move about, scaring off mynas.

5. Trap the myna birds to remove them from your property. Cage traps and nesting box traps have been used in other parts of the world with some success. Mynas are extremely smart; if you choose this method, you will need to place the trap in an area where they feed, providing food for at least three days before springing the trap. Once mynas are caught in the trap, they can then be removed to a park or other wildlife-supporting area.

Tips & Warnings

• Mynas often feed on dog or cat food, as well as chicken feed, left outside for pets.

• Do not let mynas see you placing the trap in the feeding area during the daytime, as this will make them extremely wary.

References

• Cornell University Extension: Common Myna
• Government of Samoa: Control of the Myna

Resources

• Compassionate Action Institute: Starling Facts