ABQ Times

The ABQ BioPark has announced the successful hatching of two critically endangered Bali myna chicks. The news follows the introduction of two Bali mynas, a male named Pozole and a female named Masa, earlier this year with the aim of forming a mating pair.

Bali mynas are a critically endangered species of starling native to the island of Bali in Indonesia. Current estimates suggest there are only 50-60 mature individuals remaining in the wild, an improvement from 2001's all-time low of just six birds. This progress is attributed to international efforts aimed at reducing poaching and regular releases of birds hatched in captivity.

In late 2023, following recommendations from the Bali Myna Species Survival Plan, the ABQ BioPark received Masa from Atlanta Zoo as a companion for Pozole, who arrived from St. Louis Zoo in November 2019. The bird care team at ABQ BioPark worked diligently on their habitat to foster an environment conducive to breeding.

By May, courtship behaviors and nest-building activities were observed, culminating in the discovery of eggs in their nest later that month. Two chicks successfully hatched on May 25, 2024. According to ABQ BioPark staff, first-time parents Pozole and Masa have been actively involved in chick-rearing duties.

Both parents share responsibilities; females primarily handle incubation and brooding while males contribute by bringing nest materials and food items such as bugs and fruit for the chicks. The young birds have already left the nest box and can be seen exploring with their parents within the Birds of the Islands habitats at ABQ BioPark.

The chicks will remain with their parents for several more weeks until they reach an age where they would naturally separate in the wild, after which they will move into their own space.