Gianyar, 26 September 2025 — Taman Safari Bali officially inaugurated the Mitchell’s Lorikeet (Trichoglossus forsteni mitchellii) Breeding Center on Friday, 26 September 2025. This milestone marks a significant step in the conservation of one of Indonesia’s endangered endemic bird species. The initiative especially highlights efforts to protect the Red-breasted Lorikeet, whose wild population continues to decline.
The inauguration was officiated by Nunu Anugrah, S.Hut., M.Sc., Director of Species and Genetic Conservation, representing the Director General of KSDAE, with full support from the Ministry of Forestry through Balai KSDA Bali. The event also celebrated the arrival of Mitchell’s Lorikeets repatriated from the United Kingdom to Bali, made possible through the collaboration of Taman Safari Indonesia, World Parrot Trust, and Paradise Park.
“It has been fourteen years since Paradise Park began working with the Mitchell’s Lorikeet, gathering birds from across Europe to establish a managed breeding programme. To date, we have successfully bred over one hundred individuals, and it was with great pleasure that some of these beautiful birds were returned to Bali earlier this year. Working with our international partners, we look forward to the day when their descendants can be released back into the forests of Bali, where they truly belong. This project is a wonderful example of collaboration, proving that the dedication of teams across the world can achieve remarkable things for nature.” From an international perspective, David Woolcock, Curator of Paradise Park
The Mitchell’s Lorikeet is a legally protected species under Indonesian law and is classified as Endangered (EN) by the IUCN. Its survival is threatened by illegal wildlife trade and habitat loss, making the establishment of this breeding center a crucial component of long-term conservation strategies.
“This Lorikeet Breeding Center is designed to support a controlled breeding program that is release-oriented connecting ex situ to in situ. Our hope is to once again hear the vibrant calls of the Mitchell’s Lorikeet echoing through the forests of Bali and Lombok,” said Jansen Manansang, Founder of Taman Safari Indonesia.
In his remarks, Director Nunu Anugrah emphasized: “The inauguration of this Lorikeet Breeding Center is a tangible demonstration of the government’s commitment together with strategic partners to save an endemic species. The repatriation of the Mitchell’s Lorikeet is an important first step, and we hope this facility will support release programs so that the species can once again thrive in its natural ecosystem.”
The inauguration was attended by the Head of Balai KSDA Bali, representatives of the Bali Provincial Government, academics, and conservation partners. Ratna Hendratmoko, Head of Balai KSDA Bali, expressed his gratitude: “Our highest appreciation goes to all parties who have provided both technical and administrative support. This proves that conservation cannot be achieved alone. This success is the result of synergy that must continue to be strengthened to ensure long-term wildlife protection.”
“Balai KSDA Bali wholeheartedly supports and opens wide opportunities for collaboration with all stakeholders to protect wildlife and their habitats for a more sustainable future.”
As a symbol of hope, a pair of breeding lorikeets was officially named “Galih” and “Arya.” The event also featured the screening of a documentary chronicling the repatriation journey of the Mitchell’s Lorikeet, highlighting both the challenges and aspirations behind this conservation initiative.
With the tagline “Kedis Mewali ke Bali” (“The Birds Return to Bali”), Taman Safari Bali together with its national and international partners reaffirms its commitment to restoring the voice of this iconic endemic species to its natural habitat, ensuring a more sustainable future.
