Strength in Teamwork in Bali

Our dedicated on-the-ground team in Bali, Indonesia is engaged in many initiatives to help animals and local communities alike. Halfway through 2024, we have achieved many positive outcomes, including: the rescue and rehabilitation of several species, diverse educational programs for both children and adults, and critical veterinarian support for companion animals. While we remain committed to dolphin rehabilitation, release and conservation, we are pleased to share that the Umah Lumba Center serves as a multi-purpose facility for a variety of programs and interventions.

Third Raid of Endangered Green Sea Turtles

Unfortunately, the illegal trade of endangered green sea turtles for their meat continues in Bali, with traders collecting the sea turtles from poachers from other Indonesian islands. The reptiles suffer from ruthless capture methods and are often seriously injured in the process.

This year on May 27, a third raid of sea turtles took place in West Bali. The reptiles were found being smuggled in a pickup truck on the way to Denpasar, in the southern part of the island. All had wounds that needed treatment. (Poachers routinely cut their front flippers and push ropes or plastic straps through them to keep the turtles unable to move.)

Our team was able to assist the Jembrana Police with the care of these beautiful creatures of the sea. At our Turtle Hospital, at the multi-purpose Umah Lumba Center, the team provided first aid and medical treatment for the confiscated turtles to assist in their recovery.

Read the full story here.

Lucky’s injuries are treated at the Umah Lumba Center, West Bali, Indonesia. Credit: DolphinProject.com

Marine Mammal Stranding Training

Recently, our team conducted a marine mammal stranding workshop for approximately 40 fishermen in Jembrana, Bali. With three whale shark strandings occurring in the district, the training was a fun, yet important way to share knowledge to help protect our oceans and those that live around them.

Read more about the Do’s and Don’ts of Marine Mammal Strandings

Marine mammal stranding training, Bali, Indonesia. Credit: DolphinProject.com

Students Continue to Learn at the Umah Lumba School

We are pleased to report that 46 students continue to enjoy classes at the Umah Lumba Free School. In addition to learning core subjects such as English and nature conservation, our team has also added a recycling class. Here, children can use their imagination to create something beautiful or useful from non-toxic waste products.

Students create art from recycled materials, West Bali, Indonesia. Credit: DolphinProject.com

Caring for Primates in Need

We are grateful to offer medical care and rehabilitation for primates in need, including providing a forever home to a severely injured long-tailed macaque, who is missing one arm. He is amongst five primates that were recently rescued from a life of extreme abuse, all kept chained as “pets”. Once the quarantine period for the other four macaques has been fulfilled and they are deemed healthy, they will be socialized in groups. This is an important step in ensuring the primates can be released in future.

All primates are examined by our veterinary team, West Bali, Indonesia. Credit: DolphinProject.com

Companion Animals Need Love, Too

Unfortunately, rabies continues to be a serious problem in Bali. Thankfully, our team is still able to provide free vaccinations and treatment for domestic animals. We also sterilize dogs and cats free of charge, along with educating our community about the importance of their pets’ health and well-being.

A dog is brought to our clinic for free veterinary treatment, West Bali, Indonesia. Credit: DolphinProject.com

Please consider making a donation to help support our work in Bali, Indonesia. Your support is greatly appreciated!

Featured image: Education is fun at the Umah Lumba Free School, West Bali, Indonesia. Credit: DolphinProject.com