Invasive pest birds
Find out more about other invasive and pest-like species found in our region.
There are some invasive animals found in our region that are not identified as priorities in our Sunshine Coast Biosecurity Plan 2024. Read more about how our priority species were determined.
While these species are invasive and cause environmental, economic and social impacts, they are not recognised in the Biosecurity Act as restricted.
Unfortunately these species are so well-established and widespread in Queensland controlling them is extremely challenging.
Indian myna birds
The Indian myna birds were first released into the Australian environment to help control pest insects. They quickly spread out of control and are now widespread throughout eastern Australia, including much of the Sunshine Coast, occupying a range of habitats. They thrive in areas where humans live, particularly where there is food easily available.
Indian myna birds are not listed as restricted in the Biosecurity Act or a priority species in council's Sunshine Coast Biosecurity Plan 2024. However, council recognises the negative impact of this species on the environment and the community and supports the management of Indian myna birds through council's pest bird trapping program.
Indian mynas threaten native biodiversity with their territorial behaviour. They compete with native animals for nesting hollows, aggressively defending their territory. Indian mynas spread diseases and parasites that affect native birds, including bird mites (which can also affect human health). They often form large communal roosts in suburban areas, causing health concerns and noise issues.
For information on how to identify Indian myna birds or their impacts download the Indian myna bird fact sheet or identification sheet. To find out how you can get help to protect your place download the Indian myna bird control handbook.
You can report Indian myna bird sightings using MynaScan. For information on how to manage Indian myna birds, including how to build your own trap, visit the MynaScan Resources webpage.
Feral pigeon
Feral pigeons or rock doves (Columba livia) are considered to pose risks to human health in urban environments. They also compete with native birds for resources and can spread disease and parasites.
For more information on feral pigeons download the fact sheet (PDF, 184KB). For assistance with protecting against feral pigeons, please contact council or your local invasive bird management professional.
Mistaken pests
Some native animals can be mistaken for pests because of their ‘nuisance’ behaviours. For example, the Australian brush-turkey has been known to forage and build mounds in urban gardens, particularly those that replicate the brush-turkey's preferred rainforest habitat. Other species commonly mistaken for pests include the Australian white ibis, magpie and noisey minor.
All native birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals (except dingoes) are protected by the Nature Conservation Act 1992. It is unlawful to take, kill, injure or trap protected wildlife unless authorised.
More information and advice about living with native wildlife can be found on the Department of Environment and Science website. For further assistance with a wildlife issue, please contact a wildlife management professional holding the permits required to deal with native species.