Raptor Migration Festival Lombok 2025
The Raptor Migration Festival Lombok 2025 is proudly presented in collaboration with Birding Indonesia and a group of respected birdwatchers and conservationists, including Amin Saleh, Suci Sulistiani, Oky NUie, Marta Saputra, Andi Albayquni, Mehd Halaouate, and Optisan Optics Birding. Set against the scenic landscapes of Lombok Island, West Nusa Tenggara, this special event celebrates one of nature’s most breathtaking moments — the seasonal migration of thousands of raptors across Indonesia.
Every year from September to November, countless eagles, hawks, and kites soar across the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, passing over Lombok as they travel from the northern hemisphere to warmer tropical regions. During this time, the island becomes a natural viewing point for witnessing the raptor migration in Indonesia, attracting birdwatchers, photographers, and eco-travellers from across Asia.
The Raptor Migration Festival is also known as Festival Migrasi Burung Pemangsa in Indonesian. It aims to raise awareness of bird conservation and ecotourism in Indonesia while providing a meaningful experience for both the public and nature enthusiasts.
Event Schedule and Locations
12 October 2025
Photo Exhibition: Welcoming Visitors from the Northern Hemisphere
Venue: Jalan Udayana, Mataram (Car Free Day)
Time: 07:00 to 10:00 WITA
18 and 19 October 2025
Joint Birdwatching and On-the-Spot Photo Contest
Venue: Bukit Nipah, North Lombok
Time: 06:30 to 18:00 WITA
The festival is open to everyone. Families, friends, and travellers are invited to witness this rare moment as eagles and other birds of prey cross the tropical skies of Lombok.
For information and registration, contact Uchi at +62 896 8670 4249.
Follow @paruhbengkokindonesia on Instagram for the latest updates.
Background on Raptor Migration in Indonesia
Raptor migration is a fascinating global phenomenon. In Southeast Asia, many species follow the East Asian–Australasian Flyway or local island routes depending on the species and seasonal patterns. In Indonesia, the migration corridor passing through Bali and the Lombok Strait is especially significant because it serves as a narrow “bottleneck” between the Sunda and Wallacea biogeographic zones.
A study conducted in eastern Bali in 2004 recorded an impressive 7,169 migrating raptors over a 16-day observation period between October and November. The dominant species were the Chinese Sparrowhawk (Accipiter soloensis), Oriental Honey-buzzard (Pernis ptilorhyncus), Japanese Sparrowhawk (Accipiter gularis), and Booted Eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus). This confirms that the Bali–Lombok route functions as one of the most important migration channels for birds of prey in the region.
Raptor monitoring in Indonesia is also supported by organisations such as Raptor Indonesia (RAIN), which conducts long-term surveys to record both autumn and spring movements across national observation points. These coordinated efforts contribute valuable data for research and conservation.
Importance of the Festival
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Public Awareness and Education
The festival aims to increase awareness about the importance of raptor conservation and environmental protection. Through photography exhibitions, public birdwatching, and field activities, visitors can learn about the biology, migration behaviour, and challenges faced by these magnificent birds. -
Conservation and Research Value
Observations gathered during the event provide valuable data for scientists and conservation groups to map migration routes, monitor population trends, and identify potential threats such as habitat loss and climate change. These insights are essential for long-term protection of raptors and their ecosystems. -
Ecotourism Development
The Raptor Migration Festival supports sustainable tourism in Lombok by attracting birdwatchers, nature photographers, and researchers from across Indonesia and abroad. It also helps promote local economic activities through nature-based tourism and community engagement.
Visitor Tips
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Wear light, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities
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Bring drinking water and snacks
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Carry a camera or binoculars if available
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Respect the natural environment and avoid disturbing wildlife
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Check for updates or schedule changes via official social media channels
Conclusion
The Raptor Migration Festival Lombok 2025 is more than a birdwatching event. It is a celebration of nature, conservation, and community awareness. For a few days in October, the skies over West Nusa Tenggara will come alive with thousands of migrating raptors making their journey southward. Join this remarkable experience and witness one of Indonesia’s most spectacular natural events.