Bali, often called the “Island of the Gods,” is famous for its green landscapes, serene beaches, and vibrant culture. However, beyond its stunning scenery and bustling tourism is a unique world of fascinating native wildlife. From playful monkeys in the forests to rare birds that are found only here, Bali’s native animals highlight the island’s ecological diversity. Let’s explore some of these incredible creatures, where you can find them, and why they’re worth protecting.
1. Bali Starling
One of Bali’s most iconic native animals is the Bali Starling, also known as the Bali Mynah. This strikingly beautiful bird, named for its pure white feathers and bright blue patches around its eyes, is one of the rarest birds in the world. Unfortunately, due to illegal poaching and habitat loss, the Bali Starling is critically endangered, with only a handful surviving in the wild today.
If you’re a bird lover, you can find the Bali Starling in the West Bali National Park, one of the premier locations for bird conservation on the island. Here, conservation programs focus on breeding and reintroducing these birds into their natural habitat. The park itself is beautiful, offering opportunities to view not just the Bali Starling, but also a variety of other bird species and wildlife. Some eco-resorts in Bali also allow visitors to learn more about Bali Starlings and their conservation efforts.
2. Long-Tailed Macaque
When visiting Bali, you’re almost guaranteed to come across the Long-Tailed Macaque. These monkeys, known locally as “Kera,” are among the island’s most charismatic animals. Long-Tailed Macaques are native to Bali and thrive in its dense rainforests, but they’re especially famous thanks to their high visibility at the Sacred Monkey Forest in Ubud, a popular tourist attraction.
The Sacred Monkey Forest isn’t just a haven for these monkeys—it’s also a place of cultural significance, featuring temples and statues in a lush forest setting. Here, you’ll get a chance to see up close how these monkeys interact with each other and with visitors (sometimes playfully stealing sunglasses or snacks). However, these primates roam freely across many parts of Bali, including Uluwatu, where they make their presence known at the cliffside Uluwatu Temple.
Although entertaining, it’s important to respect the monkeys’ space. Keep your belongings safe and remain cautious, as they tend to be curious and mischievous!
3. Barking Deer (Muntjac)
The Bali Barking Deer, also known as Muntjac, is a shy and elusive native species found in Bali’s wilderness. As its name suggests, this small deer produces a barking-like sound, especially when it feels threatened, making it a unique animal in Bali’s ecosystem.
These timid animals inhabit dense forests and can be hard to spot, but the best place to catch a glimpse of them is again in the West Bali National Park, where their natural habitat is protected. They tend to be most active early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the forest is quiet, so patient wildlife enthusiasts may get a chance to see one.
4. The Hawksbill Turtle
Apart from Bali’s land-based animals, its surrounding waters are home to some remarkable marine wildlife, including the critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle. Recognized for their striking shells, Hawksbill Turtles play an important role in maintaining the health of coral reefs. Sadly, these turtles face threats from illegal poaching and habitat destruction.
If you wish to see these amazing creatures, head to the Serangan Island Turtle Conservation and Education Center. This center is dedicated to rehabilitating injured turtles, collecting eggs from threatened nesting beaches, and releasing hatchlings back into the wild. You can visit to learn about their conservation efforts and see the turtles up close in a responsible and ethical way.
For those interested in snorkeling or diving, Hawksbill Turtles can also be spotted in the waters around Nusa Penida, Menjangan Island, and Padangbai. These places are also rich in coral reefs and marine biodiversity, making them excellent spots to explore Bali’s underwater treasures.
5. Komodo Dragons in Bali
While Komodo Dragons are native to Indonesia as a whole (specifically the Komodo Islands), small populations of these prehistoric-looking creatures can also be found in Bali. The West Bali National Park is one such location, often attracting lovers of Indonesia’s incredible reptiles.
Komodo Dragons, the largest lizards in the world, can grow up to 10 feet long. They are fascinating yet dangerous animals, capable of overpowering prey with their strong jaws and toxic saliva. Bali isn’t their primary habitat, but efforts to protect and expand their population have introduced them to safe areas within the park.
6. Rare Snakes and Lizards
Bali is also home to various snakes and lizards that play significant roles in the local ecosystem. For snake enthusiasts, the Bali Reptile Park offers a chance to see the diversity of reptiles found on the island. Geckos, pythons, and even the occasionally spotted Bali Slow Loris can also be found hidden within Bali’s forests.
While harmless geckos are common visitors in homes and hotels across Bali, snake encounters in the wild are relatively rare, especially in tourist-heavy areas. However, trekking tours in more remote or untouched regions may give visitors the chance to see some of Bali’s unique reptilian residents in their natural environment.
Challenges Facing Bali’s Wildlife
Like many places around the world, Bali’s wildlife faces challenges brought by deforestation, urbanization, and the pressures of tourism. Animals like the Bali Starling and Hawksbill Turtle are at significant risk due to habitat loss and illegal poaching. Conservation initiatives led by local communities and organizations are playing a crucial role in securing the future of these species.
As a visitor to Bali, you can support these efforts by choosing environmentally responsible tours, visiting wildlife sanctuaries that prioritize animal welfare, and observing animals in their natural habitats without disruption. Small actions, like avoiding the purchase of animal souvenirs or choosing eco-friendly accommodations, can make a positive impact.
Bali is much more than its beautiful beaches and stunning temples. Its incredible native animals—like the rare Bali Starling, playful Long-Tailed Macaques, shy Barking Deer, magnificent Hawksbill Turtles, and even Komodo Dragons—offer a unique perspective on the island’s natural richness. Whether you’re wandering through the forested paths of the Sacred Monkey Forest, diving into the turquoise waters of Nusa Penida, or exploring the West Bali National Park, encountering these creatures in their habitat is a reminder of how crucial it is to protect the earth’s biodiversity.
Bali’s wildlife contributes not just to the ecological balance of the island but also to its soul, offering visitors memorable experiences while connecting them to the natural world. By appreciating and safeguarding these animals, we can help ensure that Bali’s rich wildlife continues to thrive for generations to come.
