Minimise numbers of Indian Mynah birds

(2006-06-22)

The Limpopo Province’s Department of Environmental Affairs has taken action including the placing of posters in public places claiming that mynah birds have no protection whatsoever and advise of the intention to “minimise” numbers of the non-indigenous specie.

The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) first heard of this when complaints were received that wild birds, including indigenous birds were being shot. An incident was reported to the SAPS by an individual (whose identity is known to the NSPCA) after a man had been standing shooting birds from outside his own front door. The NSPCA pleads for restraint and asks the pertinent question: - what kinds of people are doing this?

The NSPCA is mindful of the National Environmental Management Act and the need to reduce if not remove so-called alien species but it is stressed that urging removal before humane methods have been determined or communicated is irresponsible. It may not be the intention but the result is a free-for-all with birds of all species paying the ultimate price - with their lives. Of even greater concern are the reports of birds being shot and left to suffer. One resident whose identity is known to us told the NSPCA that he had found 5 birds in his garden, all of which had been shot and one of which was lying injured and suffering. The same resident found one (indigenous) sun bird dead in the street. It had been shot.

It is one thing for an organised, controlled and ethical cull to take place. But in this instance there appears to be involvement of the public which has already led to reckless behaviour. The NSPCA has repeatedly tried to contact the MEC for Environmental Affairs in the Limpopo Province but at the time this media release was issued, no response had been received.

The Firearms Control Act clearly stipulates that pellet guns may not be discharged in an urban area “without good reason”. Any reasonable person (as stated in most laws) would understand that discharging a pellet gun in an urban area to shoot a bird, to harm an animal or simply for fun can hardly be considered good reason.

The NSPCA believes that the use of a pellet gun on any animal, including on any wild bird may constitute a violation of the Animals Protection Act No 71 of 1962.

If you witness or know of anyone using a pellet gun on an animal or bird – report it!

Advise your nearest SPCA as quickly as you can. Charges can then be laid in terms of the Animals Protection Act as well as charging the person(s) with discharging a pellet gun or other firearm in an urban area, if this is the case.