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Bali's Rarest Bird Saved by Restaurant
16 Aug
Summary
- Begawan Foundation breeds and releases over 135 Bali starlings.
- A unique farm-to-table restaurant supports conservation efforts.
- Bali starlings are critically endangered, with few remaining in the wild.
A pioneering farm-to-table restaurant in Bali, Begawan Biji, is playing a crucial role in the conservation of the critically endangered Bali starling. This endemic bird, also known as the Bali mynah, faces a perilous future with fewer than 600 individuals remaining in the wild. The restaurant, nestled within a serene rice field near Ubud, is the latest initiative from the Begawan Foundation, founded over 25 years ago.
The foundation began its starling breeding program in 1999, successfully breeding and releasing over 135 Bali starlings, a significant achievement for a private breeder. This conservation work is supported by the restaurant's operations, with a portion of proceeds contributing to breeding and release programs. Guests visiting the farm may even spot successfully released birds.
The restaurant itself operates on principles of regenerative farming, utilizing organic ingredients grown on-site in a striking mandala-shaped garden. Its architecturally inspired pavilion design emphasizes sustainable principles, using reclaimed materials. This model offers a hopeful example of how sustainable tourism and dining can actively contribute to preserving Bali's unique biodiversity amidst challenges like overtourism and climate change.
