Improving and expanding the nest protection programme for Javan Blue Flycatcher in Central Java
© Hita-The Biodiversity Society
Project aims
Develop a monitoring and protection system for the Javan Blue Flycatcher using the SMART Patrol application
Provide at least six people from the local community with training in bird banding techniques
Engage bamboo harvesters in six hamlets to provide a safer nesting habitat, including by providing 30 semi-artificial nests
Trial anti-predator devices to improve nesting success
Involve 100 members of the local communities in the protection and conservation of the flycatcher
Results
Through a series of comprehensive workshops, trainings and feedback sessions, members of KTH Wanapaksi, a local conservation-driven community group, were equipped to use the SMART Mobile application for patrol and biodiversity monitoring activities and acquired basic bird banding skills.
An on-going pilot of the integration of data from SMART into EarthRanger.
30 patrols were conducted. While no illegal activities were detected within the areas patrolled, the team received reports of hunting activity in neighbouring regions. This may indicate the effectiveness of community-based surveillance and increased awareness among local residents about the importance of wildlife conservation. At the same time, these reports highlight an important concern that will inform the development of broader conservation strategies moving forward, including the potential expansion of education and monitoring efforts to adjacent areas.
12 community birdwatching activities were organised to introduce local community to the bird diversity found around their settlements as well as to increase engagement and awareness in bird conservation.
Nest searches detected 12 active nests across several locations. Nest guards made from zinc sheets shaped into cones were installed only to bamboo nests, primarily to block predator access and shielding from rain. Observations indicated that while it was it was effective in preventing rain from entering the nests, its effectiveness in reducing predation is unknown.
Encouraging nesting success rates with eight out of 12 nests successfully fledging chicks, resulting in a total of 16 juveniles which were all ringed.
25 bamboo-based and five wooden artificial nest boxes were created and installed during the nesting season.
Application of CCTV-based monitoring technology to observe the breeding behaviour and activities of the Javan Blue Flycatcher in this natural habitat allowed detection of early threats, provided valuable insights into nest behaviour dynamics and identified specific protection needs during critical periods.
Reports
AT A GLANCE
Organisation: BISA Indonesia
Country: Indonesia
Year project started: 2024
Species: Javan Blue Flycatcher
Co-funder: Oriental Bird Club