Distribution of long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) in Kelimutu National Park

Abstract

Long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis) are one of the mammals that live in Kelimutu National Park (Kelimutu NP). This mammal, in its natural habitat, has an impact on buffer zones in the form of animal activities that damage crops on plantation lands. The purpose of this study was to identify the distribution of long-tailed macaque populations. This research was conducted in August 2010 by covering areas within the region and outside the Kelimutu NP area. Data analysis was used to calculate the abundance index, the encounter rate for estimating abundance and distribution based on the length of the track surveyed. The results indicated that the distribution of long-tailed macaques populations in Kelimutu NP was most widely found in field habitats, with a relatively low abundance of around five individuals/km. Based on the calculation of habitat carrying capacity for groups of long-tailed macaque in the tourism zones, it is still below the maximum limit. The increased awareness of ecological insight tourism also needs to be optimized related to the presence of long-tailed macaque in the tourism zones of Kelimutu NP. Development of habitats, such as planting of trees for foods and protected zones is necessary to provide a suitable habitat for long-tailed macaque.