West Bali

West Bali National Park (Taman Nasional Bali Barat) protects the last remaining rainforest habitat in northwestern Bali, Indonesia. Established in 1941 and expanded over subsequent decades, the park encompasses approximately 190 square kilometers of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The park is most famous as the last refuge of the critically endangered Bali starling (Leucopsar rothschildi), an iconic white bird found nowhere else on Earth. The landscape ranges from coastal mangroves and coral reefs to monsoon forests and savannas in the interior hills. West Bali's relatively dry climate compared to other parts of Bali creates unique habitats that support diverse flora and fauna including banteng, Javan rusa deer, leopard cats, and over 160 bird species. The marine section features healthy coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, making it a popular diving destination.

The origins of West Bali National Park trace back to the Dutch colonial period when concerns about deforestation and the declining Bali starling population prompted initial conservation efforts. In 1941, the Dutch established a nature reserve covering what is now the core of the park. After Indonesian independence, the area was formally designated as a national park in 1982, combining terrestrial forest reserves with marine protection zones. Early management focused almost exclusively on saving the Bali starling from extinction through captive breeding programs and anti-poaching patrols. The park boundaries were expanded in 1984 to include Menjangan Island and surrounding coral reefs.

The main park headquarters is located in Cekik, accessible via the coastal road connecting western Bali to Java ferry terminals. Visitor facilities include a small interpretation center, ranger stations, and basic camping areas. Most visitors access the park through organized tours or by hiring local guides required for forest trekking. The park offers several hiking trails through different ecosystems. Menjangan Island is the most popular destination, reached by boat, offering world-class diving and snorkeling on pristine coral reefs. The best visiting season is April through October during the dry season when trails are more accessible.

Conservation at West Bali National Park centers on protecting the critically endangered Bali starling, with intensive captive breeding and reintroduction programs. Anti-poaching patrols focus on preventing illegal bird trapping and protecting other endangered species like banteng and green sea turtles. The marine zone implements strict regulations on fishing and anchoring to protect fragile coral ecosystems. Park management works closely with surrounding communities through collaborative management agreements that share tourism revenues. Climate change poses emerging threats including coral bleaching events and altered rainfall patterns.