Restoring biodiversity on the Begawan Giri farm

Begawan’s regenerative farm in Bayad Village is one of the only places in the world where visitors can see the critically endangered Bali Starling flying freely in the wild. A small flock of Bali Starlings have made their nests near Begawan’s rice fields and permaculture gardens.

Two birds, a Bali Starling and a Java Kingfisher, thriving in the chemical-free environment of Begawan Giri farm.

Visitors taking Begawan’s experiential day tours, and guests of Begawan Biji restaurant can spot the pairs flying to their favourite watering sites, perching and dancing on palm tree fronds, and hunting insects in the orange groves.

But Bali Starlings are not the only species guests can discover on Begawan Giri farm. Thanks to the regenerative practices followed by the farmers in the Begawan Giri program, several rice fields surrounding Begawan Biji Restaurant are free from agrochemicals which harm small creatures and wipe out food sources for larger animals.

Begawan’s natural farming methods have created cleaner air, water, and soil for a wide array of wildlife.

A close-up of a Java Munia perched on a rice stalk, showcasing the abundant birdlife at Begawan Giri farm.
Java Munia
A Common Flameback woodpecker foraging on a tree, highlighting the importance of preserving natural habitats for wildlife.
Common Flameback

The farm’s natural water filter provides a source of pure water for irrigation, as well as for insects and animals that thrive near water, creating a stable food supply for a variety of beautiful creatures. Dragonflies, which lay their eggs in water, are considered a good indicator that water is clean and uncontaminated. Six species of dragonflies have been identified in Begawan’s rice fields. Their presence is a source of pride for the farmers, and the inspiration for our Dragonfly Dance cocktail at Begawan Biji.

Meadowhawks dragonflies enjoying the healthy ecosystem of Begawan Giri farm's chemical-free rice fields.
Meadowhawks Dragonfly
A beautiful Grey Pansy butterfly feeding on white flowers, showcasing the diversity of wildlife at Begawan Giri farm.
Grey Pansy Butterfly

No fewer than 48 species of birds have been identified in Begawan’s rice fields and the area around the farm. The list includes Zitting Cisticola, Little Spiderhunter, and Flame-throated Bulbul, as well as birds such as the Java Munia, Wood Sandpiper, and Common Flameback. Woodpeckers, often spotted on the farm, feed on tiny insects which are easily killed by agrochemicals. The chemical-free foilage on Begawan’s farm is an inviting hunting ground for Woodpeckers. These birds are also crucial to our conservation program, as the holes left by Woodpeckers in coconut and other trees make ideal homes for newly released Bali Starlings.

The Java Kingfisher, a species endemic to Java and Bali, makes its home near rivers and ponds, where the bird hunts for the small fish that make up its diet. The run-off of chemical fertilisers into many of Bali’s waterways has contaminated the Kingfishers’ main source of food. However, the rivers and ponds around Begawan’s farm are a favourite haven for Kingfishers. Striking blue with large red beaks, they can often been glimpsed flying over the pathways to the farm, and even hunting in the ponds in the permaculture garden.

A pair of Zebra Doves enjoying the serene surroundings of Begawan Giri farm.
Zebra Dove
A Java Kingfisher thriving in the clean water environment of Begawan Giri farm.
Java Kingfisher

The circular nature of regenerative farming means that as Begawan provides the local wildlife with a healthy habitat, these creatures also play their unique roles in balancing the ecosystem in the farm. Begawan’s integrated pest management system relies on healthy wildlife to work.

Begawan’s farm team sets up bamboo sticks on the edge of the rice fields for Pacific Swallows, who hunt pests on the ground. Sensitive baby eels, which can only thrive in clean soil and water, are breeding in Begawan’s rice fields. The adult eels will in turn eat crab eggs, which benefits the farm, as crabs burrow holes that drain the water in the rice fields. Flying Lizards have also been documented on the Begawan Giri farm. Considered a bioindicator for clean air, they too help to control pests in the rice fields.

A Common Flying Dragon blending seamlessly with the bark of a tree, showcasing its excellent camouflage abilities.
Common Flying Dragon
A Monitor Lizard thriving in the chemical-free environment of Begawan Giri farm.
Monitor Lizard

Begawan’s approach to conservation recognises that to protect animals, we also need to protect the habitats where they live. To thrive in the wild, Bali Starlings require a healthy environment with clean air, water, and food. The chemical-free fields and gardens in Begawan’s program support not just the survival of Bali Starlings, but also a host of other species that are intricately connected to each other and to all of life on the island.

To book a tour of Begawan’s farm and release site, email us at hello@begawan.org