KERISDIMAS BIO-CON revealed the important relationship between bird diversity and vegetation in Meru Betiri National Park.
Meru Betiri National Park once again demonstrated its rich biodiversity through a study conducted by KERISDIMAS BIO-CON in 2022 at the Sukamade Resort area. This research focused on bird species diversity and its relationship with host plants that support bird life in the wild.
Using the point count method, the research team successfully recorded dozens of bird species from various families, ranging from birds of prey to small birds inhabiting the forest canopy. This diversity indicates that the Sukamade area remains an important habitat for many bird species with different ecological roles.
Furthermore, the study also revealed important conservation aspects. One of the notable findings was the presence of Pavo muticus (Green Peafowl), which is categorized as Endangered (EN) and legally protected in Indonesia. In addition, based on international conservation status, several bird species were listed under Appendix II of CITES, indicating that their trade must be controlled to prevent threats to their survival in the wild.
Moreover, several species have also been designated as protected wildlife under Indonesian national regulations, including Haliaeetus leucogaster, Spilornis cheela, Anthracoceros albirostris, Buceros rhinoceros, Rhyticeros undulatus, Microhierax fringillarius, Psilopogon javensis, Pavo muticus, Hydrornis guajanus, and Loriculus pusillus. The presence of these species demonstrates the exceptionally high conservation value of the Sukamade area.
Pavo muticus (Green Peafowl)
On the other hand, the study also identified 21 host plant species from various families that play important roles in supporting bird life. Perching was the most frequently observed activity, while feeding and nesting activities occurred only on certain plant species. Trees such as Ficus benjamina were the most frequently visited because they provide food resources throughout the year, followed by Toona sinensis, Sandoricum koetjape, and Alstonia scholaris, which also serve as food sources and habitats. In contrast, plants such as Voacanga grandifolia and Pandanus tectorius were utilized only by specific bird species.
Ficus benjamina (Banyan Tree)
These findings indicate that bird diversity in Sukamade is strongly influenced by the presence of diverse vegetation. The close relationship between birds and their host plants plays a key role in maintaining ecosystem balance, while also emphasizing the importance of comprehensive habitat conservation in Meru Betiri National Park.