Rare Jewel of the Island: The Enchanting Bali Myna

The Bali Myna, also known as Jalak Bali and Bali Starling, is a captivating and delightful bird that derives its name from the Hindi word ‘Mainā.’ This medium-sized warbler is truly a jewel of the island, with its unique features and enchanting behaviors. Currently, the Bali Myna can only be found in a specific forest on the west side of the island, where they are protected within the Bali Barat National Park.

The Bali Myna, scientifically known as Leucopsar RothschilԀi, measures approximately 28cm in length. It is adorned with a stunning white plumage that covers its entire body except for the tail, which contrasts beautifully with its black wings. These birds often display an oscillating motion accompanied by small vocalizations. Their flight is accompanied by shrieking sounds, and as a wake-up call, they emit hissing noises. Their vocal repertoire includes intense, bursting noises mixed with whistling, chuckling, and shrieking. Both males and females are capable of producing these sounds. Additionally, the bird has bright blue, featherless cheeks, and grayish feet. While males and females share similar traits, males typically have a longer head, while juvenile birds generally have shorter heads.
The Bali Myna was first discovered in 1910 and subsequently named after Walter Rothschild, a British animal expert who described the species to the scientific community in 1913. Since then, conservation efforts within the Bali Barat National Park have been crucial in safeguarding and preserving this remarkable bird.Strict conservation measures have been implemented to protect the Bali Myna from habitat destruction, illegal wildlife trade, and other threats. These initiatives aim to ensure the species’ continued thriving and enchantment for bird enthusiasts for generations to come. Through the dedicated efforts within the Bali Barat National Park, this rare jewel of the island has found a sanctuary where it can flourish and captivate all who encounter it.The Bali Myna, with its radiant plumage, enchanting behaviors, and limited distribution, holds a special place as one of the island’s most treasured species. Thanks to the conservation efforts in the Bali Barat National Park, this rare jewel has been protected and preserved. It is our hope that these endeavors will continue to foster the thriving existence of the Bali Myna, allowing it to enchant bird enthusiasts and serve as a symbol of the island’s rich biodiversity for generations to come.