The Animals of Bali

Bali is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and its wildlife, as varied as it is fascinating. A trip to Bali is an invitation to encounter iconic, rare or surprising animals, found both in the island's protected nature and along its many walks.

Manta rays

True stars of Bali's underwater world, manta rays can be seen year-round around Nusa Penida, just 30 minutes by boat from Bali. The sites of Manta Bay and Manta Point, on the west and south coasts of Nusa Penida, offer excellent visibility, especially during the dry season from May to October.

Majestic creatures, they can reach a wingspan of 3.3 metres and weigh up to 2.3 tonnes. Their underwater ballet can be observed while diving or snorkelling, in generally calm, crystal-clear waters during the dry season.

Practical tips:

• Choose early morning outings, when tourist numbers are lower and the sea is calmer.
• Keep a respectful distance: never touch the rays, avoid chasing them and stay calm.
• Wear a well-fitted mask and choose excursions run by local guides mindful of manta conservation.

Manta Point can get very busy, so plan your outing outside peak hours to enjoy the spectacle in peace.

Sea turtles

Bali is a prime spot for observing sea turtles. From May to October, during the dry season, they are particularly active, especially in the morning, in areas such as Amed, off Bali's coast. The Gili Islands, near Bali, allow for sightings year-round.

You can also support their protection by visiting:

• The Bali Sea Turtle Society (Kuta), involved in protecting olive ridley turtles. Nesting season runs from March to September, with hatching from April to October.
• Sanctuaries in Nusa Penida and Lombok, home to more than 580 and around a hundred turtles respectively.

For responsible observation:

• Go out early in the morning and choose seagrass areas.
• Avoid touching turtles or their eggs.
• Follow guidelines and choose excursions run by NGOs or local centres.

The Bali starling (Jalak Bali)

The Bali starling, or Jalak Bali, is one of the island's rarest and most iconic birds, a living symbol of Balinese biodiversity. This small white bird with black-tipped wings and vivid blue eye markings is critically endangered, with fewer than 50 individuals left in the wild, mostly found in Bali Barat National Park.

Breeding and release programmes exist, notably at protected sites such as Bali Barat, Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. Walking through these parks with local guides, you may catch a glimpse of one. However, never encourage the purchase of wild animals or stray from marked trails in the reserves.

Monkeys

Sacred in Hindu religion, long-tailed macaques are found everywhere: in forests, near temples and even in villages. The famous Ubud Monkey Forest and the less touristy Sangeh Monkey Forest are home to more than 600 free-roaming individuals.

To enjoy watching them safely:

• Keep your distance, avoid feeding them (only park staff should do so), and don't make eye contact.
• Put away jewellery, sunglasses, bags and anything else that might attract their attention or curiosity!
• If a monkey approaches or climbs on you, stay calm and wait for it to move off on its own.
• Respect their space: remember, you are a guest in their natural habitat.

Monkeys are intelligent and cunning, and won't hesitate to trade a stolen item back to you for food!

Geckos and Balinese reptiles

In Bali, you'll come across small geckos everywhere, especially at dusk and at night. Harmless and welcome in homes for their appetite for insects, they are considered good luck by locals, and their distinctive call fills Balinese evenings.

Main species you'll see:

• Flat-tailed gecko, dwarf gecko, tokay gecko (with its loud 'to-ké' call), four-clawed gecko and Asian house gecko.

More elusive reptiles also inhabit the island:

• Water monitors, nocturnal reticulated pythons, and a few venomous snakes such as the king cobra or the white-lipped pit viper (rare encounters — caution in the forest is wise, but shouldn't discourage exploring).

Always observe reptiles from a distance, never try to handle them, and enjoy the richness of Balinese wildlife while respecting the peace of these animals.

Tropical birds, butterflies and other wonders of Balinese nature

Bali is a paradise for bird watchers: more than 300 bird species live on the island, most of which can be discovered on hikes through Bali Barat National Park, the mountains around Mount Agung, or the rice fields and tropical forests. Kingfishers, parrots, owls, Sunda thrushes, and rarer birds such as the bali starling or the lesser frigatebird all inhabit these sanctuaries.

Beautiful tropical butterflies often brighten your walks. On the mammal side, sambar deer and wild buffalo live in the dense forests of the west. This variety and richness of wildlife make Bali a top destination for nature lovers and those seeking authentic encounters with animals.

In short, Bali offers a remarkable natural experience, from its lush forests, pristine seabeds and wildlife reserves. To help preserve this heritage, choose guided visits and responsible excursions that contribute to safeguarding the island's unique biodiversity.