Gianyar, todaysSpill.com
A vibrant symbol of Bali’s forests has finally come home. After years of dwindling populations and absence from their natural habitat, the Red-breasted Lorikeet (Trichoglossus forsteni mitchellii) — one of Indonesia’s most threatened endemic bird species — has returned to Bali.
This milestone was celebrated at Bali Safari with the inauguration of the Mitchell’s Lorikeet Breeding Center, a facility dedicated to the controlled breeding and conservation of the species. The event also marked the arrival of repatriated lorikeets from the United Kingdom, brought back through an international rescue and conservation partnership.
A Global Collaboration for a Local Treasure
The repatriation was made possible by a long-term partnership between Taman Safari Indonesia, the World Parrot Trust, and Paradise Park, with logistical and administrative support from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK) through Balai KSDA Bali.
“This Lorikeet Breeding Center is not just a facility — it is a symbol of our determination to reconnect conservation outside natural habitats with efforts inside them. Our dream is to once again hear the lorikeet’s vibrant calls in the forests of Bali and Lombok,” said Jansen Manansang, Founder of Taman Safari Indonesia.
For years, the species has faced immense pressures. The illegal wildlife trade has targeted lorikeets for their striking plumage and charismatic behavior, while habitat loss has shrunk their natural environment. As a result, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Red-breasted Lorikeet as Endangered (EN), underscoring the urgency of action.
A Government-backed Conservation Milestone
Representing the Director General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation (KSDAE), Nunu Anugrah, S.Hut., M.Sc., officiated the inauguration. He stressed the importance of the initiative:
“The opening of this breeding center, alongside the repatriation of Red-breasted Lorikeets, is a tangible demonstration of Indonesia’s commitment to saving endemic species. This is only the beginning — we hope to see these birds not just survive, but thrive once again in their natural ecosystem.”
Building a Bridge Between Ex Situ and In Situ
The Breeding Center has been carefully designed to support a release-oriented conservation strategy. By focusing on genetic diversity, careful monitoring, and adaptation programs, the facility aims to prepare future generations of lorikeets for release into the wild.
Head of Balai KSDA Bali, Ratna Hendratmoko, highlighted the collaborative spirit that made this project possible. “Conservation is not something that can be done in isolation. This achievement shows the power of synergy between government, NGOs, academic institutions, and international partners. Together, we can create a sustainable future for wildlife and ecosystems.”
A Ceremony Filled with Hope
The inauguration event was attended by representatives of the Bali Provincial Government, conservation experts, academics, and community partners. As a gesture of optimism, a pair of lorikeets at the center were named “Galih” and “Arya.”
The ceremony also included the screening of a short documentary film that traced the lorikeets’ repatriation journey from the United Kingdom back to Bali. The film showcased both the logistical challenges of international wildlife transport and the shared determination of conservationists across continents to ensure the birds’ safe return.
“Kedis Mewali ke Bali” — The Birds Return to Bali
The event carried the tagline “Kedis Mewali ke Bali” — meaning “The Birds Return to Bali” in Balinese. It symbolized not just the physical return of the lorikeets, but also the broader vision of restoring balance in Bali’s ecosystems.
Bali Safari and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to making this vision a reality. Beyond breeding, the center will serve as a hub for research, education, and public awareness, ensuring that the lorikeet’s story inspires both conservationists and the general public.
“This is more than just about one species,” Manansang added. “It is about giving nature back its voice, and about ensuring that future generations will inherit a Bali where birds like the Red-breasted Lorikeet are not just memories, but living, thriving creatures of the forest.” TS-01
