Feed preference based on faeces composition analysis green peafowl (Pavo muticus Linnaeus, 1766) in Bekol Savanna Baluran National Park

Abstract

Roaming over 323.99 ha of savanna at Baluran National Park is the green peafowl (Pavo muticus Linnaeus, 1766), which becomes one of the major focuses in conservation endeavor due to their decreasing global population. The previous studies on this species mainly focused on their feeding behavior. In this research, we try to obtain a deeper insight into their feed preference to develop better habitat preservation for this species at Baluran National Park. This descriptive explorative research aimed to discern the feed preference of green peafowl based on their fecal composition and to determine their ecological role based on their respective preferences. This research was carried out through cluster sampling of any faeces found in the savanna of Bekol and identifying the remnants of food found in the species. The results indicated that green peafowl mainly feeds on Salvia riparia Kunth and some other plants. From the observation and the fecal composition analysis, it can be inferred that green peafowl serves an important role in seed dispersal of various plants in the savanna; thus, this species holds the key role in shaping the ecosystem in the savanna.