RRI.CO.ID, Badung - The Bali Natural Resources Conservation Center (BKSDA) teamed up with local partners to release 12 Bali Starlings (Leucopsar rothschildi) into their natural habitat on Thursday, April 9, 2026, in the Karang Dalem Tua Traditional Village, Abiansemal Subdistrict, Badung Regency. The area is chosen for its pristine landscapes and strong cultural commitment to environmental protection.

The group of birds, consisting of six males and six females, originated from partner breeding facilities. Before their return to the wild, BKSDA veterinary teams conducted rigorous health checks to ensure the birds, famed for their snowy white plumage and distinct blue patches around the eyes, were in peak condition. This followed a month-long habituation period designed to help the starlings adjust to their new surroundings.

"We hope this collaboration can inspire the public," said Head of BKSDA Bali, Ratna Hendratmoko, emphasizing that community involvement is key to long-term conservation success, as quoted by Antara.

The Bali Starling, also known locally as the Curik Bali, is a strictly protected species under the Conservation of Living Natural Resources and Ecosystems Act. Its survival is of international concern, as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently lists the species as endangered.

This status is largely the result of habitat loss and illegal poaching in the wild, making the establishment of safe, stable populations in areas like Abiansemal Subdistrict, a high priority for conservationists.

The Karang Dalem Tua Traditional Village was selected as the release site because it remains one of the region's most ecologically rich areas. Situated in the highlands, the landscape is defined by the Ayung River, lush rice paddies, and community-managed forests that remain largely untouched.

These natural features provide a high ecological potential for the starlings to thrive. By releasing the birds into a community that values both natural and cultural heritage, authorities hope to create a sustainable sanctuary where this endemic species can once again flourish in the wild. ***