Indian Myna Trap Making Workshop
The issue
Acridotheres tristis (Indian Mynas) are an invasive species in Australia.
The range of the Indian Myna is increasing at such a rapid rate that in 2000 the IUCN Species Survival Commission declared it one of the world's most invasive species and one of only three birds listed among "100 of the World's Worst Invasive Species" that pose a threat to biodiversity, agriculture and human interests. In particular, the species poses a serious threat to the ecosystems of Australia, where it was named "The Most Important Pest/Problem" in 2008.
The Indian Myna numbers throughout the Narrabri Shire have been increasing steadily over the last few years.
The solution
Members of the Yarrie Lake Landcare Group noted a rise in Indian Myna numbers and decided to investigate control options, including trapping.
With support from a grant provided by Narrabri Shire Council, materials were purchased for trap construction, and two workshops were delivered, at Yarrie Lake Hall, for residents across the Narrabri Shire.
Participants of the workshop included farmers, business owners, youth group, local government representatives, and retirees with an age range of 14 – 80 years.
The workshops involved plenty of preparation (pre-cutting of material) to ensure that all participants were able to go home with a trap ready to use.
The impact
Across the two workshops, sixty participants each completed and took home a trap. A further ten trap components were distributed to community members who were unable to attend. The traps are now being deployed across the shire, from Bellata to Pilliga.
Attendees learned how to manage the traps, attract birds, and provide food and water appropriately. There was an enthusiastic sense of camaraderie in the workshops with everyone helping each other.
The workshops also increased awareness of the local Yarrie Lake Landcare group.
An additional benefit of the workshops was bringing community members together and strengthening local connections.
When the workshop idea comes from the Local Group it is well supported.
Pre preparation was the key to smooth running of workshop.
There was a greater interest in the subject than expected. If funding allowed extra workshops would have been equally as well attended.
Local councils are a good source of funding for small projects.
The benefits of the workshop were more than just making a trap - they were a chance for the community to get together, help foster new relationships and generally help improve social isolation.
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