An introduced pest bird, the Common Myna, is trying to make its home in Orange, an occurrence that Charles Sturt University (CSU) academic Dr Cilla Kinross is attempting to prevent. Setting traps for this major pest of national significance and removing nests is Ms Kinross’ answer to these birds. “We have spotted them nesting in and around Bunnings and Lone Pine Avenue,” Dr Kinross said. “Bunnings have been supportive of their removal and we will set traps to capture and euthanise them humanely.” A successful trapping program was started earlier this year and is about to recommence to try and catch those missed in the first round. A project run with volunteers of the Orange Field Naturalist and Conservation Society, and supported by the Orange City Council and the Central West Catchment Management Authority, was set up in the hope that the situation of these pests becoming a serious problem as seen nearby in Bathurst can be prevented. In Bathurst the Common Myna has had a negative effect on native wildlife, both birds and mammals. In many areas this species has come to totally dominate the birdlife and few natives are seen. “We can prevent the spread of these pests but we need to be vigilant and ask anyone who sees a Myna bird in their garden to contact Dr Cilla Kinross on 6365 7651,” Dr Kinross said.