Host a nest box and save our native birds

A researcher from The Australian National University is calling on the local Canberra community to lend a helping hand in the crusade to save our native Australian birds by hosting a bird nest box in their backyard.

PhD researcher Kate Grarock from the Fenner School of Environment and Society at ANU is investigating the impact of the Indian Myna bird on native bird life in the ACT region.

She is seeking residents in Kaleen, Giralang, Aranda, Cook, Pearce, Torrens, Chifley, Kambah (South of Drakeford Drive), and Theodore to host bird nest boxes in their yards as part of the study.

Ms Grarock says the aim is to observe the number of native birds using the nest boxes, and to determine whether the Indian Mynas force native birds out of their boxes.

“Our research looks into the natural nesting behaviour of native Australian birds. We are interested in finding out whether Indian Mynas move into established nests and drive the native birds out,” Ms Grarock said.

“This research will help to determine the impact Indian Myna birds have on our native Australian birds and to raise public awareness of the problem.”

A nest box host will be required to regularly monitor what types of birds and other animals – such as sugar-gliders or owls – are using the box. Each month hosts will report back to the research team via a webpage.

Nest boxes will be fixed to a tree trunk or large branch in the front or backyard where they can be easily observed. Boxes will be mounted for free and remain in service for two years. The box remains the property of the host after the research period has finished.

“We’re really lucky to live in a city that is rich with native birds and animals,” Ms Grarock said. “It would be a shame for us to lose native birds because of the behaviour of introduced pests like the Indian Myna. That’s why it’s crucial for us to learn more about the interactions between pest species and natives, and to test ways of solving the Indian Myna problem.”

If you are interested in this opportunity, please email kate.grarock@anu.edu.au, stating your name and street address.

For more information or interviews: Kate Grarock 0407 612 614

Posted 30 September 2009