Bird Release at Besikalung 2015

The Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus), having undergone a 3-year rehab in FNPF Bali Wildlife Rescue Center, is finally back in nature. When it first arrived, it was in such bad shape; its claws were cut off by the previous owner which was why it was confiscated and put under our care by the BKSDA in 2012. Turning a domesticated and injured bird to a bird of prey was not an easy task. It has lost all of its animal instinct, so vital for hunting and survival. Hence, during the rehabilitation process, the bird was trained to fly, hunt, and protect itself from predators. The process proved a success. After a difficult first year, the bird gradually regained some talent for hunting fish, squirrel, and lizard.

Our staff was praying to the gods

May is considered to be an auspicious month to release the bird. Besikalung Temple, on the slopes of Mt. Batukaru, in Tabanan was chosen because of location and natural conditions. It is surrounded by protected forest, providing ample food and water. More importantly, because the forest is protected by the villagers, the bird is relatively safe from poachers.

Preparing the cage for a grand release

The release day was marked by the many people from nearby villages who performed the ceremony in honour of Sarasvati (Goddess of knowledge, arts, and wisdom) at Besikalung Temple. For us at FNPF it was the perfect event to teach local villagers about the importance of conservation. Altogether it was a beautiful occasion. It was sacred but also educative. It was a perfect moment when the bird flew away out of the cage, full of confidence.

The bird is finally free

At the same event a python (Phyton reticulatus) was also released, courtesy of the local community. It is our hope that both animals will survive and thrive in their new forest home. This important even will not be possible without the strong support from Humane Society International.

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