More invasive myna birds captured

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has announced significant progress in the national project to curb and control the invasive myna bird population in Qatar, with nearly 36,000 birds captured since the campaign’s launch.The ministry pointed out that the trapping operations were carried out across 35 locations using 611 cages, resulting in the capture of 9,416 birds between January and June this year. such figures reflect the growing pace and effectiveness of environmental control efforts.The myna bird, native to South Asia, is classified as an invasive species that disrupts local ecosystems by displacing native birds, feeding on their eggs and chicks, and rapidly reproducing in urban areas. Its spread leads to increased competition for food, the transmission of diseases, and a threat to biodiversity.The ministry noted that this is not just a challenge for Qatar, as several GCC and Arab countries are facing similar issues with the species, which has adapted quickly to local environments.The national campaign includes monitoring and surveying programmes to track the bird’s spread, trapping initiatives, and public awareness drives to educate the community on its dangers and encourage reporting sightings.Accordingly, the ministry urged residents to support the effort by reporting the bird’s presence, avoiding leaving food sources, covering garbage bins, sealing building openings, and trimming trees to reduce nesting sites. It also warned against tampering with cages and traps placed by specialized teams, stressing that handling the birds should be left to the authorities to ensure public safety and the success of the campaign.The ministry stressed that community awareness and cooperation are essential to curb the spread of this invasive species and protect Qatar’s biodiversity.