Tyto alba Cultivation in Balinese Cultural Perspective

Abstract

Rat infestation (Rattus argentiventer) in Subak Pagi and Subak Bengkel, Tabanan regency, Bali  has resulted in rice crop failure in both areas. Rice production decreased drastically to only about 10 - 20% of normal conditions. The utilization of Tyto alba as a biological control of rat pests, turns out to be able to play a very effective role in controlling pest attacks. In nature, Tyto alba population continues to decline due to hunting and agricultural land clearing. This research aims to study the cultivation of Tyto alba, especially from a cross-generational cultural perspective. Generations are grouped by year of birth with a range of 20 years, from 1960 - now, into generations X, Y and Z, respectively. The research used descriptive qualitative method, through depth interview approach and forced field analysis. The results showed that there are four supporting factors for the cultivation of Tyto alba as a rat pest control, namely first Tyto alba is very effective in controlling rat pests. Another supporting factor is that Tyto alba has actually been known for a long time by the people in the two subak and has a belief value system in the life of the subak community, as well as environmentally friendly and able to maintain the food chain. There are four inhibiting factors in Tyto alba conservation efforts, namely, the lack of committed breeding officers, availability and management of food, land for preservation and development and very limited financial support. Analysis forced field concludes that, cross-generational public perception in the acceptance of Tyto alba as a biological control of rat pests is very positive. However, preservation efforts with a breeding system cannot be done in both subak at this time. Efforts to preserve and develop Tyto alba are carried out by releasing it in nature with conservation protection through village regulations.