Knowledge of birds in Bali can help you better understand the layered richness of this heaven on earth.
Bali has more than a million marvels to explore. While we often think of this Indonesian island’s fascinating culture, we shouldn’t overlook its nature – especially its fauna and, more specifically, its birds. With over a hundred bird species—some endemic and others stopping over during their migratory journeys—Bali is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Why not embark on a bird photography trip led by a professional photographer who is also proficient in ornithology?
ManButur Suantara is an example of a photographer who can guide you through this fascinating journey. This Balinese man loves the many riches of his island and is passionate about birds. Born in Karangasem, a small eastern town in Bali, he began as a photographer specialising in landscapes. But his talents don’t stop there; he also excels in other genres, such as architecture, food, documentary, and macro photography.
“I have always been an admirer of images, whether paintings or photographs,” Suantara explains.
Suantara recalls starting his career as an assistant to an official government photographer when the digital era had already taken over the world of photography. An animal lover as well, he could only begin bird photography once he could afford a long telephoto lens that allowed him to shoot from afar.
While he tirelessly documented the birds of Bali with photographs, videos, and sound recordings, co-founder Dian Dewi eventually came up with the idea of Tale Feathers and asked him to bring his expertise to the project.
Active in several nature conservation communities, Suantara thought it would be a smart idea to combine nature, art, and culture to build a better understanding of their intersections in Bali through an educational initiative. After all, learning about these elements as well as bringing them together leads to better conservation efforts.
“Being informed about the local culture and environment gives a deeper appreciation for the birds we photograph,” he asserts with conviction.
Suantara’s point is that Tale Feathers will uncover many interesting aspects of Bali’s history, directly connecting with its fauna and flora – particularly birds – which hold a peculiar place in human narratives throughout time and civilizations. As you might guess, Bali is rich in myths and legends related to birds.
160 Different Species in the West Bali National Park
Suantara’s passion for birds started with a group of local fauna enthusiasts called Satwa Alam Bali. This is where he caught the bird-watching bug. Since then, he has relentlessly taken thousands of pictures in the wild. For the West Bali National Park alone, he has captured and documented no fewer than 160 bird species. All this knowledge is now available on the Sawidji website (www.sawidji.com) and Suantara’s personal social media accounts.
Do species such as the Glossy Ibis, Royal Spoonbill, Osprey, Horsfield’s Bronze-Cuckoo, Chestnut-cheeked Starling, White-faced Heron, and Brown Booby ring a bell to you? If that’s the case, you might be an expert already. But if you’re just an absolute beginner, it doesn’t matter. Tale Feathers offers many different trip programmes, and they can be tailor-made if you have a special request.
“Whether to other Indonesian islands or even to neighbouring countries”, Suantara assures, recollecting memories of a photo safari he had to organise in Cambodia for a very demanding client.
Additionally, Suantara plays a crucial role in Sawidji, actively participating in numerous initiatives within the Sawidji Community as well as sharing his expertise through various technical and educational workshops.
Discover the Migratory Species
Tale Feathers offers different programmes. As a beginner, you could learn the basics of bird photography on a Pupuan/Tabanan trip, where Suantara would combine the teaching of photography techniques with the art of waiting patiently in the hide. You could also opt for the West Bali National Park for a complete immersion in the forest. It starts with an endemic Bali Starling hour in the feeding ground area, a tour of the park with the help of a local guide, and ends with an exploration of the shoreline and its specific bird species.
If you prefer the mountains, you could choose the Bedugul area. There, you could get a nice balance between the botanical gardens and the forest.
“For those with some experience, the terrain is flexible and can provide just the right amount of challenge,” Suantara explains.
Finally, if your interest in ornithology lies with migratory species, you could enquire about the Waterside Trip. However, exploring shorebirds is a seasonal adventure.
“Usually, our migratory birds visit Bali’s shores from September to March,” Suantara details further.
When all’s said and done, one shouldn’t mistake Tale Feathers for a photographic safari tour where you return with trophy pictures to brag about. Knowledge of birds and their interactions with history, culture, and social matters is the only grand prize you’ll be rewarded with.
Tale Feathers operates under the umbrella of Sawidji, a Bali-based art collective, studio, and gallery that fosters a lively community of diverse and talented artists, writers, architects, and intellectuals. Driven by a strong sense of community spirit and an appreciation for nature, art, and culture, Sawidji encourages dynamic interactions and mutual support among its members, whether they are locals or foreigners, most often for educational purposes. For more information, you can reach out to Sawidji by sending an email to info@sawidjifinearts.gallery or sawidjistudio@gmail.com. You can also reach them via phone at +6282145502791.