Treasures Threatened: 7 Native Indonesian Animals Facing Extinction

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4. Jalak Bali (LeucopsarRothschildii)

The next endangered native Indonesian animal is Jalak Bali. Endemic to the island of Bali, the Bali Starling, also known as Jalak Bali, is one of the world's most beautiful and critically endangered birds. 

Known for its striking white plumage and distinctive blue skin around the eyes, this species has faced severe population decline due to the illegal pet trade and habitat destruction. Conservationists work diligently to restore their populations through captive breeding programs and reintroduction efforts in protected forests.

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5. Harimau Sumatra (Panthera tigris sumatraee)

The next endangered native Indonesian animal is Harimau Sumatra. With less than 600 individuals remaining in the wild, the Sumatran Tiger is critically endangered. Their habitats are rapidly vanishing due to illegal logging, palm oil plantations, and poaching. 

Poachers hunt these majestic creatures for their skins, bones, and other body parts, driven by the illegal wildlife trade. Conservation organizations are engaging local communities, promoting sustainable practices, and stepping up anti-poaching activities to ensure the survival of this iconic species.

6. Burung Maleo (Macrocephalon maleo)

Lore Lindu National Park serves as the habitat for this unique bird species in Central Sulawesi. The maleo bird is an endemic species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. This native Indonesian fauna has black feathers with a pale pinkish-white underside. 

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The skin around its eyes is yellow, its beak is grayish-orange, and it stands at a height of approximately 55 cm. Interestingly, the maleo bird only lays a single egg each breeding season, which contributes to the increasing threat of its extinction.

7. Cenderawasih (Paradisaeidae)

The Cendrawasih bird, known as the Bird of Paradise, is unique for its beautiful feathers. Etymologically, the word "cendrawasih" comes from the words "Cendra," which means moon goddess, and "Wasih," which means messenger. 

Local residents believe that this bird is the reincarnation of fairies flying around the forests of Papua. There are approximately 30 species of Cendrawasih in Indonesia, with 28 of them found in Papua, including the small yellow Cendrawasih, bald Cendrawasih, king Cendrawasih, and red Cendrawasih.

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