The Bali Mynah is listed as a critically endangered species where the population up until recently has been rapidly declining.  In 2001, the population was at its lowest point with only six individuals.  Despite efforts to reintroduce them to the wild almost as soon as they were released they were captured for the illegal pet trade.   Despite years of efforts to save the species in the wild with often very discouraging results, conservationists have not given up and most recently launched a new effort at West Bali National Park.  Over the past decade the park has been helping to save the species by heading up a captive breeding program.

Last summer the State News Agency of Indonesia, Antara, reported that the number Bali Starlings at the National Park had reached 303, the largest population since 1974, made possible due to the Park’s captive breeding program.  Round up funds collected at the El Paso Zoo this year will help us continue to support conservation efforts important to saving this strikingly beautiful bird living in our Asia Forest aviary.

Learn more about our conservation efforts here.

Photos

Middle – Silk Knoll, Wikimedia Creative Commons
Cover and Bottom – Marc Emond, Wikimedia Creative Commons