Swiss Winnasis

Sutadi
Birds of
Baluran
Achmad Toha
Richard Noske National Park
Birds
Baluran
of

National Park
Swiss Winnasis
Sutadi
Achmad Toha
Richard Noske

Baluran National Park

2011
 IO N A L
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Birds of Baluran National Park

Copyright 2011 Baluran National Park

Baluran National Park

Jl. Raya Banyuwangi-Situbondo KM. 35
Ds. Wonorejo, Kec. Banyuputih, Kab. Situbondo
East Java-Indonesia
www.balurannationalpark.web.id

All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, Optimis kepada Allah
recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright Membayangkan Beliau sedang tersenyum kepada kita
owner. Lalu bekerja sampai batas kemampuan

Authors: Photographers:
Swiss Winnasis Swiss Winnasis, Sutadi, Indra Arinal, Nurdin Razak,
Sutadi Imam Taufiqurrahman, AdhyMaruly, Ganda Diarsa, Eka
Achmad Toha Febian
Richard Noske
Photo Cover:
Design: Baluran's signature bird, the Green Peafowl Pavo
Swiss Winnasis muticus (Swiss Winnasis)

ISBN:
978-602-19319-1-2
Dicetak oleh Balai Taman Nasional Baluran menggunakan dana DIPA 29 2011
 Thanks to

1. God for everything.

2. Our beloved mom and dad, our dearest wife, sons and daughters for
your spirits.
3. All of our field and office partners in Baluran NP for the supports and
cooperation. Especially for PEH gangs as “more than work” we’ve
done together.
4. The Head of Baluran NP, Ir. Indra Arinal.
5. Preliminary species text editors, Karyadi “Kang Bas” Baskoro, Imam
Taufiqurrahman, Bernadius “Maswa” Setiawan, Adhy “Batak” Maruly,

1
Asman Adi Purwanto for the great contributions
6. Preliminary English text editors, Oka Dwi and Murni Amalia.
7. Photo contributors, Adhy “Batak” Maruly, Imam Taufiqurrahman,
Indra Arinal, Nurdin Razak, Febri Eka, and Ganda Diarsa.
8. Pak Wiratno and Pak Sonny Pratono as their efforts made this book
could be accessed by more people.
9. Arif “Surip” Faisal and all Kutilang Indonesia Foundation staffs and also
Farid Muzaki for the useful e-books and additional data we used in
this book.
10. Dr. Bas van Balen for a very valuable contribution, great discussion
and a worthwhile advices. Also Nick Brickle for some IDs correction.
Ibu Dewi for some reviewed text.
11. Pak Bro Nurman Hakim for “crazy little thing called work”.
12. Mochammad Iqbal for the Sigma lens.
 Preface
L ong before it was declared as a national park in 1980, Baluran National Park
was well known for its population of Banteng cattle and the savanna
ecosystem that supported them. The fact, together with Banteng population
declining on first 2000s, and out-all devastated savanna by Acacia nilotica, still
both of these icons can't be separated from Baluran NP name. Great grateful to Dr
Bas van Balen, one of Indonesia's most knowledgeable ornithologists, for adding
many species to the Baluran checklist. From the latest list of 196 birds of Baluran,
now we know that Baluran supports or at some stage has hosted at least 225 bird
species which are being recent Baluran checklist. Many of these birds have been
reported by birdwatchers in the past (Bas’s record since 1980 and unpublished
records since 1970), although some were never confirmed.
The purpose of this book, like its predecessor, is to showcase the avifauna of
Baluran, demonstrating that there is much more to the park than just Banteng and
the savanna ecosystem. The previous book was written in Bahasa Indonesia and
featured photographs of 137 of the 171 species known by the authors at that time
2
that have been recorded in the park. The book you are reading is obviously in
English, features photographs of an additional 23 species, and provides much
more up-to-date information than the previous one. As none of the first three
authors is a biologist by training, and access to the literature is poor at the best of
times, then there’s the fourth author to provide that much-needed scientific
input. Dr Richard Noske agreed to revise the text, but neither he nor the others
realized that this revision would entail re-writing the text in its entirety!
Special credit we also dedicate for species editors. During the manuscript
writing, the preliminary text has been corrected, input and additional information
a lots since two years ago. There were Imam Taufiqurrahman in Coraciiformes
order, Adhy Maruly in wader groups, Bernadius Setiawan in some passerines,
Asman Adi Purwanto in eagles and the rest are belong to Karyadi Baskoro who had
gave us many inputs since the previous book.
It seems like a “mutual book” with many names joined during we worked out
this book. And it's a good thing, it's a very simple idea: this book is belongs to
everyone. Certainly, it's impossible to being a better book without multi party
involvement. We thank Oka Dwi and Murni Amalia for improving the English
grammar of the original version. In photographer list, beside the authors, there
are Indra Arinal, Adhy Maruly, Imam Taufiqurrahman, Ganda Diarsa and Nurdin
Razak who has contributed their precious photos (see credit page for details). We
are indebted to Ian Wongkar for his illustrations of Baluran's landscape and bird
topography.
But a substantially improved text deserves an improved layout design as well.
What you see now is the culmination of many ideas and inspirations that saw the
layout change three times. Finally, we present Birds of Baluran National Park to
you. We wish this book that actually has inspired by Burung-burung Taman
Nasional Karimunjawa (2007) book led by Hary Susanto, will bring the same effect
to delivery another similar local books from around Indonesia. We convinced that
3
at least five years toward there will be books, much enhanced books, from
Indonesian authors. Hopefully not an arrogance, but what is in the book you hold
is one splash of water left and had to fight in the middle of barren desert of Baluran
National Park's history: Birds of Baluran National Park.
This is our HIJRAH: to do a much better job. Understanding more about the
birds of Baluran National Park is not the final destination, it's just a small piece of a
big aim to save our biodiversity.
November, 2011
Authors
 Greetings from The Head of Baluran National Park

B aluran National Park, located in East Java, Indonesia, has a lot of unique natural
characteristic, that rarely can be found in any other national parks in Indonesia.
Those natural characteristic are: first of all, Baluran is located in tropical area,
giving it exceptional biodiversity. Secondly, Baluran has an extremely climate, making
it a savannah where its wildlife is all exposed and can be seen easily by visitors. All
these advantages have encourages several young staffs of Baluran National Park to
study the bird life of Baluran National Park, which is covered in this book.
“Birds of Baluran National Park' is the second edition of Baluran's bird life book.
The first edition was written in Bahasa Indonesia. English is added to this second
edition as a means to reach to foreigner readers whose visits keep increasing day by
day.
In this book, there are 160 types of birds that are covered, from a total of 196 types
of birds that have been successfully identified in Baluran National Park. This
achievement comes from nothing but a constant tireless effort years after years, and
thus we should express our respect to the writer of the book.
4

5
For Baluran National Park, the publication of the book means a pride for us,
because a book containing the potential of the national park that is published
independently by the national park is a rare achievement. The independent
publication here means Baluran National Park has taken care of every single thing,
from the content till the funding, solely by its own capacity. Editing is the only aspect
which we got help from fellow volunteer writers. Therefore, we would express much
gratitude to their dedicated contribution to this meaningful book publication.
By reading this book, we would invite you all, our valuable readers, to explore the
beauty of Baluran National Park to an even further level, so that you can feel the exotic
beauty of our wildlife even if you've never visited us. But of course, your experience
will be even more complete if you could spare some of your time to visit us in Baluran
National Park.
Have a good reading, fellow explores! We hope that next series of Baluran's book
can be published in the near future, as a means to complete the satisfaction of you,
who are dearly interested in Baluran National Park.

Wonorejo, October 2011

Ir. Indra Arinal

NIP. 19560420 198203 1 002
 Contents
Preface 1
Greetings 4
Contents 7
Read First 8
Introduction 10
5

7
Baluran's Birds in Context: the Birds of Java 12
The Avifauna of Baluran 14
Managing Baluran's Savannas 15
Managing Baluran's Banteng 17
Other Management Issues 18
Threats to Birds and Law Enforcements 19
Bill Shapes and Feeding 26
Flight 27
Reproduction 28
Non-Passerines 32
Passerines 160
Photographers Credit 254
Bibliography 255
Appendix 258
klik on title to direct the page
 Read First Distribution map Habitat use shows habitat preference
Endemism:
shows where the where the birds live and move around. This
Species description: J: Javan endemic; JB: is based on field observation and
describe behavior, Occur in Java and birds could be seen.
It shown as references. Habitat use could be as
included identification Bali; In: Country classifying the height where the birds
and voice. endemic included squares. There are
This book contains 160 species from 25 squares with 2x2 present (on the ground, bush, lower or a
Borneo and Timor high tree) and horizontal class (habitat
of 225 species (Appendix 1) that have islands. km length (4 kms2)
Family Description types) in the park that clustered to main
been recorded in Baluran National groups:
Park. Wetlands, consist of mangrove, estuary, fish
pond, paddy fields, low and high tide sea.
Flight Pattern shows the typical flight JB
pattern of the family. Zig-zag lines show River is not included in this group.
both the amount and speed of wing beats; Forest, consist of savanna, coastal forest,
straight lines indicate the amount of monsoon forest, plantation forest and
gliding between flapping bouts. evergreen forest .
1 5
HABITAT USE

2 6

3 7

moonson, etc
evergreen forest,
8

high seas
tidal

mangroe and

watery ground

(savana, moor)
open ground

9
4 8

1. Woodpecker-like: 5. Finch-like: fast wing

fast wing beats beats between
between deep shallow undulating
undulating glide; glide;
2. Gull-like: slow, 6. Eagle like: slow wetland forest
deep wing beats wing beats between
(little gliding); soaring glides;
3. Sparrowhawk-like: 7. Swallow-like: fast
Sociality refers to the social tendencies
fast and deep wing wing beats Abundance indicates the relative of the species, with five categories:
beats between flat interspersed with abundance of each species in Baluran National Law refers to Indonesian Solitary: typically alone;
glides; undulating glides; legislation:
using five categories: Pairs: male and female living or moving
4. Duck-like: fast wing 8. Partridge-like: 1. UU No. 5/1990 regarding Natural together for some or most of the time;
beats and straight simlar to duck, but Very common: easy to find all over the
path; short distance. park at any time of the year; Resource and Ecosystem Conservation. Groups: three to approximately ten birds
Common: easy to find in many locations 2. PP No. 7/1999 concerning Plants living or moving together, often a family
in the park; or at certain times of the year and Animals Preservation. consisting of a pair and their young;
Approximate size, is used to estimate (migrants), sometimes in large numbers; Flocks: more than ten birds of the same
Status refers to 2010 IUCN Red Book.
the relative species size by comparing Sparse/Rather rare: found only in a few This book adopts five categories: Least species living or moving together, sometimes
with other species in the same or locations; or migrants found in small Concern, Near Threatened, Vulnerable, consisting of several families;
different family. numbers; Endangered and Critically Endangered. Mixed flocks: Mixed species flocks: often
Rare: rarely observed, or irregular
migrants in small numbers; resting or moving with groups of other
species.
Very Rare: very rarely observed; or visitor
in very small numbers and/or irregular.
 350

2009

Introduction 300

250
2010

Rainfall (mm)
200

150

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when hearing the name of 100
Figure 1. Monthly rainfall in
Baluran National Park? For many people, the answer is Banteng. Identifying 50 Baluran National Park, 2009-2010
Baluran National Park with Banteng is reasonable because this attractive but 0
(Baluran NP, unpubl. data)
sadly, Endangered, bovine is the flagship of this national park, which is one of the J F M A M J
Month
J J S O N D

oldest in Indonesia. Yet Banteng survive in at least two other parks on Java, as well 300

Surabaya
as in parts of mainland Asia. What makes Baluran really special is its savanna 250
Banyuputih
Banyuwangi
ecosystem, which covers 40% of the park and is the largest representative of its
kind on the island of Java. Although there are several other nature reserves and 200

Rainfall (mm)
national parks in East Java, most are associated with mountains and plateaux with 150

little or no savanna. Moreover Baluran is the driest national park in East Java, Figure 2. Mean monthly rainfall of
the nearest city and towns to
receiving on average, less than 1,500 millimetres (mm) of rain per year although Baluran 1951-1992 (Wasser &
100

this fluctuates widely from year to year, such as in 2009 when mean annual rainfall Harger 1992; SamSamWater 50

was only 845 mm, while in the following year 1345 mm fell (see Figure 1). Only Foundation)
10

about 6% of Java receives less than 1,500 mm of rain annually, most of it along the
north and northeast coasts. At the other extreme, many mountains of Central and
West Java receive more than 600 mm per year!
The vegetation of Java, as elsewhere, is to a large extent determined by climate
and altitude. Above around 1,200 metres above sea level the major natural
vegetation type is montane forest, whereas below this altitude forest can be
classified as either rainforest, if annual rainfall exceeds 2,000 mm, or deciduous
forest, if it is less than 1,500 mm. These forest types can be sub-divided according
to the number of wet or dry months they experience, 'wet' months being defined
as those with an average rainfall of over 200 mm and 'dry' months as those in
which less than 100 mm falls. Dry Deciduous Forest (vs Moist Deciduous Forest)
grows in areas where there are more than six 'dry' months, and where most of the
trees are deciduous. This is the major vegetation type in Baluran, where the dry
months are from May to October (Figure 2), hereafter called the 'dry season'. In
this book we use the popular term Monsoon Forest instead of Dry Deciduous
Forest. Among the most familiar trees in this habitat are the flat-topped Pilang
Acacia leucophloea, Widoro Bukol Ziziphus rotundifolia, Kepuh Sterculia foetida,
Walikukun Schoutenia ovata, Mimbo Azadirachta indica, Wangkal Albizzia
procera, Asam Tamarindus indica and thorny-trunked Randu Alas Bombax
valetoni.
26
11
0
J F M A M J J J S O N D
Month
A spectacular feature of the park is Mount Baluran, an extinct volcano which
reaches 1,268 metres above sea level, with a permanent spring in Kacip Valley in
the middle of the mountain's crater. Above 400 m on the mountain, but also in
patches around creeks in the lowlands, the forest contains mostly evergreen
plants, including species like Glingsem Homalium foetidum, Kemiri Aleurites
moluccana and Berasan Drypetes ovalis. Around the coastline the vegetation
often changes to Mangrove and Coastal Forests. Coastal Forest (or Beach Forest)
grows on mostly sandy soils on the edge of the sea, or behind mangroves, except
where encroached by illegal settlements, and often features Ketapang Terminalia
catappa, Penggung Barringtonia racemosa, Waru Hibiscus tiliaceus and the stilt-
rooted palm-like Pandan Pasir Pandanus tectorius, as well as the majestic
emergent palms Gebang Corypha utan and Lontar Borassus flabellifer. Mangrove
forests grow in intertidal areas on muddy substrates from Gatel block in the north-
west to Candi Bang, south of Bama, on the east side of the park, and small patches
in Uyahan block on south-east. They comprise few tree species but include the
distinctively stilt-rooted Bakau Rhizophora apiculata, the bat-pollinated Pedada
Sonneratia alba, smooth-barked Api-api Avicennia alba and the red-flowered,
bird-pollinated Tanjang Bruguiera gymnorrhiza.
 Baluran's Birds in Context: Javan Hawk-Eagle
the Birds of Java Chestnut-bellied Partridge
Yellow-throated Hanging Parrot*
Sunda Coucal
Javan Scops Owl
The island of Java has approximately 290 species of resident land bird species, Javan Barred Owlet*
whilst Bali has just 172 such species. The difference is to be expected because of Javan Kingfisher*
the much smaller size of Bali, and the generally drier conditions on this island Black-banded Barbet*
compared with Java. Due to the close proximity of Bali to East Java, with only the Blue-crowned Barbet*
narrow, albeit deep, Bali Strait between them, 97% of Bali's avifauna is shared Brown-throated Barbet
with Java. Of the 290 resident species of Java, 18 are found only on Java, and Javan Banded Pitta*
another 12 species on both Java and Bali (Table 1). Combining these two values, White-breasted Babbler
10% of the resident land birds of Java (30 species) are Java-Bali endemics, with White-bibbed Babbler
one additional species - the ill-faited Bali Starling - occurring only on Bali, at least Crescent-chested Babbler*
in historic times. It is highly likely, however, that the Bali Starling did once occur in Grey-cheeked Tit-babbler
East Java (if not even further westwards) in places like Baluran, the dominant Red-fronted Laughingthrish
habitat of which is nearly identical to that of Bali Barat National Park, where the Javan Fulvetta
12
Sooty-headed Bulbul, Racket-tailed
Treepie and Brown Prinia. The Javan and
Asian mainland populations of these
species must have become isolated when
sea levels rose again after the last glacial
period, causing an increase in rainfall, and
the eventual replacement of monsoon
forest with rainforest in the region
between them.
Java now has an impoverished avifauna.
Comparisons with the islands of Sumatra
and Borneo suggest that Java has lost up to
43 species of lowland forest-specialised
birds, including an unknown number of
endemics. This tragic loss is undoubtedly
due to large-scale deforestation that has
taken place on Java since the 16th century,

26
13
last wild population of this bird lived. Spotted Crocias long before deforestation on the other,
The avifauna of Java is best understood by examining its geological history. Javan Cochoa larger islands had started affecting their
Originally a series of volcanoes rising from the sea, the island of Java probably Javan Tesia own fauna. The decimation of Java's
emerged around 10-15 million years ago (mya), while Bali probably emerged only Javan Bush-warbler* lowland forests reached its maximum rate
around 3 mya. For much of the last 250,000 years these two islands, along with Olive-backed Tailorbird*
towards the end of the 19th century after
the much larger islands of Sumatra and Borneo, collectively known as the Greater Red-tailed Fantail
four decades of intensified cultivation
Sundas, were connected to each other as well as to the Asian mainland due to sea White-bellied Fantail
during the “Cultuurstelsel”. Only 2% of the
levels dropping as much as 120 metres below present day levels, itself due to Pygmy Tit
original lowland forest cover of Java now
global glacial cycles. Indeed, it would have been possible to walk from Java Javan Sunbird
remains. Luckily most of Java's 30 endemic
through Sumatra to mainland Asia when sea levels were just 40 metres below White-flanked Sunbird
bird species are montane, and almost all of
present levels, which was the case for 45% of the time, even over the last 17,000 Grey-throated Ibon*
these birds can be seen in the national
years. This history of connectivity explains why the avifauna of Java is so similar to White-capped (Chestnut) Munia*
parks of West Java.
that of the other Greater Sunda islands, as well as to the Thai-Malay Peninsula of Java Sparrow*
the Asian mainland.
However, during those glacial periods rainfall and humidity were probably Table 1. Bird species endemic to Java (or
Java and Bali)
lower than today, and as rainforests shrank, monsoon forests would have
NB:
expanded, allowing dispersal of species associated with this habitat between - Asterisk (*) signifies species also on Bali
Indo-China and Java. This at least partly explains why some 16 species that are - Excludes Javan Banded Pitta - split by Rheindt & Eaton
associated with monsoon forest are found both on Java and in Indo-China on the (2010) Forktail
Asian mainland, yet are absent from the region (Thai-Malay Peninsula, Sumatra
and Borneo) between them. Examples are the Green Peafowl, Lineated Barbet,
 The Avifauna of Baluran
As only 2% of the original lowland forest cover of Java remains, Baluran is a
precious refuge for many lowland birds. A total of 225 species have been reliably
reported from Baluran (Appendix 1), of which 30 have been added by the authors.
An additional 21 reported species require confirmation (Appendix 2). Others may
have already disappeared from the park due to illegal trapping (see below). The
total number of species is astonishingly close to the 227 recorded by Mark
Grantham for Alas Purwo National Park, which differs in being largely Moist
Deciduous Forest with several forest specialists that are absent from Baluran
because of its drier climate and greater amount of savanna.
If the Banteng is the mammalian icon of Baluran, the Green Peafowl is its avian
equivalent. It is the most “wanted” species for most visiting birdwatchers. Listed
as Endangered due to population declines in most parts of its range, this majestic
bird is one of the monsoon forest-adapted species with a disjunct distribution
14
that skips the region between Indo-China and Java. Once common in Central and
East Java, less so in West Java, the Green Peafowl has disappeared from many
former sites due to deforestation, excessive hunting for its feathers and meat, and
the collection of chicks for sale as pets. Of the three Javan national parks that
support this species, Baluran appeared to have the largest population for many
years. Indeed surveys during the 1980s and early 1990s suggested a population of
between 200 and 600 over the entire park. However more recent counts at Bekol
savanna and three other sampling sites showed an alarming decline from an
estimated 118 birds in 1995 to 70 birds in 2006, while the population at five sites
in Alas Purwo National Park had actually increased from 43 birds in 1998 to 80
birds in 2006.
Poaching is the likely cause of the population decline of these birds at Baluran.
Despite the efforts of park rangers to catch the perpetrators of this crime since the
1980s, this practice continues today, although snared birds are sold alive rather
than being killed for food. Potentially more harmful to the population is the
collection of eggs, which are sold by poachers to middlemen at a price of Rp.
3,000-5,000 per egg, then incubated so that the hatched chicks can be sold.
Encouragingly, the numbers counted at Baluran remained stable between 2006
and 2007. This may suggest that poaching activities decreased over that period,
possibly due to the capture and successful prosecution of several trappers, now
serving jail sentences, but the future of the Baluran population clearly requires
constant vigilance on the part of the park's rangers, and research into all potential
causes of its decline.
The best place to see the Green Peafowl, apart from along the main Batangan-
Bekol road into the park, is on the margins of the Bekol savanna-grassland. This is
also a very good place to see the Green Junglefowl, which is another popular
target species for birdwatchers since it is restricted to Java, Bali and the islands of
Nusa Neggara as far east as Flores, but is easier to see here than most places
within its range. Bekol savanna is also a great place to look for birds of prey (or
raptors), of which 17 species have been seen within the park. During the dry
season, the savanna is invaded by numerous rats that raise their young in dens
deep within the cracks of the drying soil. These rats attract the Black-winged Kite
26
15
and Spotted Kestrel, as well as the patchily-distributed Short-toed Snake-Eagle,
which is rarely recorded in the Greater Sundas, including Java, except at Baluran.
At Bekol, one can also see the two commonest raptors of Baluran, the Crested
Serpent-Eagle and Changeable Hawk-Eagle, though these birds can be found
throughout the park at any time of the year. In stark contrast, the rare Javan
Hawk-Eagle, endemic to Java, is rarely seen in Baluran, and indeed its occurrence
in the park was doubted until an individual was found injured in a poacher's trap in
2004. This bird eventually died, but five years later (in 2009) another individual
appeared on Mount Baluran, raising hopes that it might become a regular visitor,
if not resident, one day.
For something different, you should also visit Gatel Block in the northwest.
With its fish ponds, sandy beaches, mangroves and paddyfields, it is the best
place to see waterbirds, and some songbirds associated with wetlands. The
discovery of the Javan Coucal in Gatel Block in 2009 is exciting as previously this
restricted and threatened Javan-endemic species was thought to reach its
eastern limits in Surabaya.
 Managing Baluran's Savannas
Arguably Baluran's greatest assets are its Banteng and the savannas that cover
about 40% of the park. One of the park's main tourist attractions is the Bekol
savanna, where an observation tower affords impressive views of large herds of
native Rusa Deer (Cervus timorensis) and in the past, Banteng, as they graze in the
open, especially during the evening. Appropriately, the park's current
management policies are aimed mainly at protecting the Banteng and
maintaining the savanna ecosystem that supports them.
With their continuous grass layer and sparsely-distributed trees, savannas
around the world partly owe their existence to fires, originally possibly started by
electrical storms, but maintained by humans for millennia, probably to facilitate
hunting. At Baluran local people have been lighting savanna fires annually for
many decades to improve pasture for their cattle. As these fires sometimes
spread into the adjacent monsoon forest, the park managers decided in 1969 to
plant a living 'fire-proof' barrier of the exotic Acacia nilotica (sometimes called
Arabika or Akasia) at the edge of Bekol savanna. It was thought that the shade
16
produced by these trees would also prevent the growth of grasses that provide
fuel for fires during the dry season. However the issue of containing the trees was
never considered. Unfortunately, as is often the case when alien species are
introduced, not only did the management prescription fail to solve the original
problem of forest fires, but it created another problem as A. nilotica spread
rapidly on the feet and in the guts of the grazing animals. This tree now represents
the single greatest threat to the savannas of Baluran, and it has also impacted on
the Banteng.
Several methods of controlling this fast growing and spreading tree have been
trialled at the Bekol savanna (about 946.36 hectares), though none to date have
been undeniably successful. Slashing of young trees at ground level was
conducted during the late-80s until early 2000, until it was realized that the
density of A. nilotica growth increased with slashing frequency, and to make
matters worse, the resultant stands were particularly thick and impenetrable.
Since then control methods have included manual uprooting of trees (1991-1993)
and bull-dozing groves into ridged stockpiles (1993-2000). The most recently
trialled method consists of cutting and burning the trees to the roots in early
2000s then continued to 2004-2006, and smearing the remaining wood with
herbicide and diesel fuel (2011).
Yet despite these efforts to control it, A. nilotica has continued to spread and
by 2009 was estimated to cover nearly 2,500 ha. Thus, it seems inevitable that this
pest is here to stay. Although it is likely to spread and reduce the potential for
viewing large animals, without additional research we simply don't know how it
will effect the Banteng population or other savanna-dwelling species. Further
research is also required to determine the optimum fire regime for this, and other
parts of the park. The A. nilotica saga serves as a reminder to land managers that
the introduction of any alien plant or animal invariably causes environmental
problems that eventually require costly solutions.
Managing Baluran's Banteng
While the Banteng is historically the undisputed symbol of Baluran, the park's
population is in serious trouble. From an estimate of 219 to 267 animals in the
26
17
year 2000, Banteng declined dramatically to 126 individuals in 2002, then only 15
animals in 2006! Happily, surveys in 2010 suggested an increase to around 34, but
in 2011, using the same method declines to only 22 animals! This number is still
dangerously low. Prior to 2000, the main strategy for managing Banteng was
aimed at reducing the population of feral Buffalo Bubalus bubalis, which was
more abundant than the Banteng and thought to be competing with it for fodder.
Under this programme, 300 Buffalo were caught and removed from the park in
1985, and another 400 between 1989 and 1994. The programme ceased soon
afterwards, and in the absence of reliable population estimates for either
Banteng or Buffalo before or after the removals, has been deemed a failure by
subsequent managers.
In fact the decline of Banteng appears to be more related to degradation of the
savannas that form its major feeding habitat than to possible competition with
other bovines. As noted above A. nilotica has now invaded most of the park's
savannas, which are the feeding grounds of Banteng, and as little grass can grow
beneath its canopy, its presence reduces the foraging area available to Banteng.
Past attempts to eradicate the tree by manual uprooting loosened the soil
structure, so that during the wet season rainwater runoff transported much of
this soil as sediment to natural pools near the coast, where Banteng used to drink.
 Eradication procedures and other human activities also disturbed the animals,
forcing them to move out of the park or other places inside. Annual monitoring by
park officers suggests that the home range of Baluran's Banteng herds have
shifted from Bekol and other A. nilotica-infested savannas to the Palongan
savanna and plantation forest, through which the Bajulmati River flows, supplying
the animals with drinking water.
A recent study by Pudyatmoko and others, however, implicates the native
Dhole (or Asiatic Dog) Cuon alpinus in the decline of Baluran's Banteng. These
researchers estimated a Dhole population of 150 animals between 2002 and
2006, and observed seven separate predation events on Banteng, involving cows,
sub-adults and calves. The very low proportion of young banteng and decline of
females in the population indicated that predation by dholes may play a more
important role than environmental factors. At Alas Purwo National Park the
disappearance of dholes in the early 1990s was allegedly followed by a rapid
recovery of Banteng, whose numbers had been declining precipitously. Reducing
the population of Dholes at Baluran, however, presents a dilemma given that, like
the Banteng, it is an endangered species!
18
Other Management Issues
Another pervasive management problem for Baluran comes from the people
of the local villages who persist in harvesting the many natural resources of the
park. Plant resources collected include wood for timber and fuel, fruits and fronds
of the Gebang palms, fruit of tamarinds (Asam), seeds of Kemiri (Alerites
moluccana) for candlenut, honey, tubers of the wild yam Gadung (Dioscorea
hispida), grass for livestock and parts of various other plants for traditional
medicine. Worse, they also occasioanally hunt deer, buffalo and banteng, trap
birds (see below), and graze large numbers of cattle and other livestock within the
park. Temporary camps have been set up for fishing in Kajang and near Candi
Bang. At Bitakol, plantation forest where Banteng made their homerange, in
particular, environmental management comes under the jurisdiction of both
Baluran and Perum Perhutani, and these two institutions differ in respect to
tolerance to all forms of human activities that may compromise the preservation
of Banteng. Yet the population of Banteng at Bitakol may be larger than at Bekol.
Despite the introduction of A. nilotica to reduce the incidence of fires, every
year hundreds, if not thousands, of hectares of forest in Baluran are burned,
fuelled by the cured grass and dead leaves from deciduous trees that accumulate
over the long dry season. These fires not only directly destroy wildlife habitat and
resources, but the incineration of thorny shrubs or brambles opens up the forest
floor, providing easier access to hunters and bird trappers, as well as to invasive
weeds which promote further fire. Hunters also use fire to drive game towards
their traps. Thus fires have multiple effects on the forest, some intended and
some not, but in combination, ultimately turn them into savannas that are quickly
degraded by weeds. Although these fires are almost certainly lit by people in the
vast majority of cases, catching the arsonists responsible and obtaining proof of
their crime is very difficult, given the large area of the park.
Water is a critical resource for sustaining Banteng and other ruminants,
especially during the long dry season when most rivers dry up. Only Bajulmati and
Kacip Rivers, in the crater of Mount Baluran, are permanent. Pools along the
ephemeral rivers are important watering points for these animals, but many clog
up with accumulated silt that is carried down rivers by run off during the rainy
season.
Baluran has a policy to maintain the quality of these pools as drinking water for
the animals. The mud must be dredged and leaves and twigs are manually
26
19
removed. In addition, water is imported from Kacip River to artificial pools at
Bekol where these animals congregate, especially the Banteng. However since
the pipes connecting the river and Bekol have been dissolving, the water supply to
Bekol has decreased dramatically, and water from underground must now be
pumped using a generator. The use of solar power-generated utilities is the latest
development to ensure the availability of electricity as the main power source for
the water pumps.
Birds Threats and Law Enforcements
26
Finally, and of most direct relevance to the focus of this book, there is the
persistent problem of illegal trapping of birds in Baluran. Despite national
legislation protecting many bird species, these laws are rarely enforced, and
illegal trade in birds in Indonesia is still rampant and largely unmonitored, due to
the insatiable appetite of people, especially Javanese, for cage or 'pet' birds.
Species with powerful and melodious voices, such as the Oriental Magpie Robin,
are favourites among songbird hobbyists, of which there are an estimated 70,000
among six cities in Java and Bali alone. Increasingly, protected areas such as
national parks become the focus of poachers, unable to find populations
 elsewhere. At least 23 species of birds are known to have been poached from the
park, ranging from the common Zebra Dove to the Endangered Green Peafowl.
The Yellow-vented Bulbul, though still very abundant, is a victim of mist-net
poaching, in which hundreds or even thousands are caught in fine nets, and
transported out of the park in sacks! Even a Rhinoceros Hornbill from Baluran
reportedly reached Pramuka bird market in Jakarta.
There is no doubt that the bird trade can have disasterous consequences on its
targets. Bali's only endemic bird species, the highly distinctive and beautiful Bali
Myna (Leucopsar rothschildi) was so heavily trapped that it is now Extinct in the
wild, despite protection under Indonesian law since 1970 and repeated releases
of captive-bred birds. Similarly the Straw-necked Bulbul (Pycnonotus zeylanicus)
was so mercilessly trapped for the cage bird industry that it has disappeared from
Java, and is fast declining in other parts of its range. The precipitous decline of the
Javan-endemic Javan Sparrow has also been attributed to excessive trapping.
Of greatest concern in Baluran is the Critically Endangered Black-winged
Starling, an endemic to Java and Bali, which has disappeared from most of its
former haunts. In 2008, no more than three individuals of this uniquely-coloured
species could be found in the park, and whilst seven individuals were found in
2009, and twelve in 2010-2011, this small increase in numbers is probably
20
cheeked Bulbul and Java Sparrow. If there is sufficient evidence against the
culprits, they are taken to the local police station. However, some of cases the
poachers are released after writing a statement, approved by the head of the
village, that they will not repeat the offence. Moreover, although some cases go to
court, few result in a successful conviction. Since 2004 to 2010 there were six
poaching cases went to court and ended by 3-5 months jailed poachers, they also
must paying fine about IDR 50.000-250.000.
Given that poaching persists, the effectiveness of patrols, punitive measures
and the legal system in protecting wildlife from poachers at Baluran is debatable.
With so many access points and settlements along the park's long coastline or
inland borders, the chances of finding and catching all poachers is small.
Restricting public access to areas known to support threatened species is neither
feasible nor in accordance with the modern concept of conservation area
management in which the local human community is an inseparable part. Such
measures are reactive and remedial rather than aimed at preventing the problem.
The long-term solution to reducing human pressure on the park lies in raising
community awareness of park management policies and practices, and the
reasons for them. Baluran management now spends a significant portion of its
budget on community development improving locals economy and education in

26
21
insufficient to save it from local extinction. Small, isolated populations have a the hope that local people will understand and respect the need for
limited gene pool, and with an increased likelihood of inbreeding, they are environmental protection and biodiversity conservation.
vulnerable to many threatening processes. It therefore seems inevitable that
these birds will soon disappear from Baluran. Indeed, poaching may well be the
reason why three songbird species (Orange-headed Thrush, Lineated Barbet and
Greater Racket-tailed Drongo) seem to have already disappeared from Baluran.
These birds have not been observed in the park since 2007. If current levels of
poaching persist other species may be awaiting local extinction, such as the
endemic race of the Banded Pitta (Pitta g. guajana), now considered an endemic
species (to Java and Bali) by most authorities.
How then can Baluran's wildlife be protected against poachers and hunters?
Currently each region of the park is regularly patrolled by park rangers, and
known entry and exit points for poachers and hunters, mostly close to
settlements or farmland, are monitored almost continuously. The illegal
settlements in the region of Labuhan Merak are monitored most intensively
because many poachers use them as "transit" points before and after conducting
their crimes. The numbers and attributes of residents in these settlements are
regularly assessed and documented.
If caught, offenders are taken to park headquarters and interrogated, and their
victims are confiscated. Species that have been confiscated and subsequently
released successfully include the Green Peafowl, Blue-winged Leafbird, Grey-
 Baluran National Park Gatel block is the place where
almost all water birds, both
resident or migrants, have seen
in the park. The association of
mangrove forest with a bit
swamp, fish pond and paddy
fields is preferred by water birds.
Otherwise many terrestrial bird
also recorded here. Placed on the
park boundaries, the site is easy
to accessed. Sunda Coucal,
Javan Plover and Asian Golden
Weaver would be the most
Surabaya interesting birds here.
East Java Baluran
National
Park
Bajulmati River, might be
another important site for
some endemic and threatened
22
Kacip Valley, right on mount Baluran crater is the
place where birds with restricted distribution have
found, like as Javan Hawk-Eagle, Blue-winged
Leafbird, Large Woodshrike, Banded Broadbill or
Orange-breasted Trogon. But you need to walk
about 6-7 hours to get there. It means you need al
least two days if you want to see more birds. With
river flowing right beside camp locatin, stay longer
won’t be problem anymore.
Bekol and Bama. There are a
priority areas for protection and
habitat maintenance. This well
known tourism place in
Baluran also the best place to
see raptors, peafowl,
junglefowls, hornbills,
woodpeckers, even storks. If
you don’t want loose your to
time see birds early as

23
birds in Baluran. With forest possible, there are guest
which is always green all year, Bekol house you can stay. Early
Black-bandad Barbet, Yello- morning or in the afternoon,
throated Hanging-parrot, Green Peafowl would be even
Grey-cheeked Tit-Babbler are seen right from your windows.
frequently observed. Even Bama
Banteng also occur here.
From the highway, this site
can be accessed by
motorcycle about 2 km.

Entrance

Baluran's main office is located at the
entrance to the park. A visitor
pass/entry permit is required to enter
the park, and is available for purchase
at the visitor center. The permit fee is
IDR 2.500 for Indonesian nationals,
with concession IDR 1.250 for
students; and IDR 20.000 for
foreigners.
B
aluran National Park is located in the Banyuputih sub-district, Situbondo
regency, East Java province. Based on SK. Menteri Kehutanan No. 279/Kpts.-
VI/1997 date on 23 May 1997, Baluran National Park is defined as being 25,000
hectares in area. The geographical coordinates of the park span latitudes from
approximately 7°45' to 7°55' S, and longitudes 114°18' to 114°27' E.
Baluran National Park is only two hours by ferry and vehicle from Bali Barat National
Park, on the northwestern tip of Bali. It is on the main provincial highway (Pantura) that
connects Java and Bali. The nearest airports are located in Surabaya, around 8 hours
drive to the west, and Denpasar, Bali, about 5 hours drive to the southeast, after a
ferry crossing.
 Bill Shapes
and Feeding

Flight

B ill forms refer to the feed consumed and how they used to obtain foods (reflects its
diet). There are many variations of the bill, can differ in each family, but they
actually have the same basic shape. Some common bill types are described below
with photographs of Baluran birds that exemplify each type
T hough they are not the only group of animals capable of flight, birds have perfected
this ability. Their feathered wings and tail control the flight speed and direction, but
there is considerable variation in the shape and size of these parts. The wing shape of
each species reflects its vagility, or level of seasonal movements. Migrant birds that traveled
across the continent is the obvious case how energy consume must be as efficient as
possible used. Land birds might be used their flight ability just to avoid from the predator.

Mud- Sea Eagle

Kestrel
Carnivores, with Fruit eaters, probers, Hawk Eagle
short hooked bill with short but with long and
allows eagles to tear strong bill
its prey slender bill allows
barbets use it for Whimbrel to access Ghoshawk
26

26
27
picking fruit off tree Eagle Kite
deeply-buried worms Long-
Fish spearers, and bivalves in mud . Short
Medium rounded
with long, spear-
Pointed
shaped bill for stabbing Fresh
large fish and other water fish Flying
aquatic prey while grabbers, long and strong catcher, Long Broad Rounded Long-
light, slender Rounded rounded
wading bill with fast acceleration Narrow-
allow kingfishers and long bill Medium
handed Long
Long Pointed
maneuver into the water make bee-eaters
High seas fish skillful catch its prey in Rectangular
to grab the prey at one
grabbers, including the air with acrobatic
flash movement.
seabirds and terns movement and fast. Stork/Adjutant
that forage at sea, Teal Tern Heron
spotting their prey in Nectar feeders, Seed eaters,
flight then grabbing from spiderhunters have with short, Deeply
under the water surface long and slender bill to strong, conical Long Broad Forked
Broad Very Long Broad
probe tubular flowers for bill munias allow Rounded
Rounded
Rounded Short
nectar; also equipped with to husk hard seed Tail
Ground foragers, tubular tongue to suck Very Short Long
coats from seeds. Pointed
Rounded
short and string bill liquid Short-
wedged
make junglefowls Surface Dabblers have broad, flattened bill Treeswift Bee-eater
capable to crack seeds, Swiftlet Woodswallow
with fine mesh at the edges to filter
flipping small stone or Medium,
seeds and small organisms from water, Short Elongated
even kill insects while dipping the head below the Long Pointed Short, pointed Long Feathers
Square Pointed Long
water's surface Forked Pointed
Medium
pointed

Reproduction
T he most important process for all living organisms is reproduction.
For birds, this process begins with courtship, and is followed by
mating, and nest building. In general birds breed when their food
resources are most abundant. Birds in the temperate regions of the earth
are forced to breed during the spring and/or summer when temperatures
are warm enough for new
28
Attract Them All
plant growth and the
emergence of insects. In The male Green Peafowl attracts
contrast, birds in the tropics females by erecting his amazing 'tail' of
tend to breed over longer long feathers and strutting around the
periods due to year-round mating grounds. During the mating
warm conditions, and period, he will spend his time with
breeding seasons vary several females, but as soon as his
between species according females have laid their eggs, he
to their diet. becomes solitary again. The females
will receive no assistance from him.
Courtship
Usually solitary, many kingfishers
approach the opposite sex only
when the breeding season
commences. A strong pair bond
is important as both birds must
build the nest, incubate the eggs
and feed the young, and the
male also provides food for the
female at times.
Nest Building
The nests of birds come in many forms. Coppersmith Barbets
(left) use a hole in a tree trunk or stump for their nests, and
although they can excavate the holes themselves, they will
also utilize holes manufactured by other birds. The Black-
naped Monarch (centre) uses small twigs and bark to build its
cup-shaped nest, placed in the fork of tree branch, while the
Asian Golden Weaver (right) normally builds its woven domed
nest on Bullrushes in a swamp, using strips of rushes as nest
material. Nesting over the water may afford some protection
from predators that don't want to get wet!
26
29
Eggs Laying
Although the female Bar-winged
Prinia, like most songbirds, lays
its eggs in a nest (upper photo),
which provides some protection
from the weather and predators,
many non-passerines such as the
Large-tailed Nightjar, lay their
eggs on the ground (lower
photo), and must cover them
with their bodies to protect
them.
Caring for the young
The young (nestlings) of songbirds and many non-
passerine families hatch naked, blind and helpless,
and depend on one or both of their parents to feed
them until they are sufficiently well developed and
feathered to leave the nest. In other families,
however, the chicks are able to walk and feed as
soon as it hatches, though they may stay with one
or more parents until they are large enough to
fend for themselves.
Species Pages
 Heron
Family Order

Ardeidae
Heron, Egret
Ciconiiformes Although not common, this species is relatively easy to find at
Baluran. Normally solitary, but pairs are seen during the mating
season, and occasionally in the company of Lesser Adjutants.
During low tide, it can be seen wading in shallow water with

Great-billed
sea grass beds or on the beach where it stalks fish. During high

A
large, cosmopolitan family, typically associated with
wetlands. Arguably the best known group of birds in
Southeast Asia due to affinity for paddyfields. Most
egrets and many herons breed in large colonies, nests being
Flight
tide, it perches on the roots or in the canopy of mangrove
trees. Although rarely observed perched in tall trees within
The broad wing span mangroves or coastal forest, the species Identification: Easily

Ardea sumatrana
placed on top of tall trees in inland swamp forests or and steady flapping distinguished by its very large body, large bill and relatively
occasionally around farms in rural areas . During the enables it to lift its uniform dark grey coloration.

Cangak Laut
breeding season most of the egrets develop long, fine huge body.
Voice: A low booming noise, but normally quiet
plumes on the head, neck and/or back, while the bill and
bare parts (facial skin, legs) change colour. The breeding
plumage of Pond-herons, however, is completely different to
that of non-breeding birds.
The long straight and pointed bills of herons are used for spearing fishfrogs and aquatic
invertebrates as they walk slowly around the edges or wade in the shallows of lakes,
rivers and paddies. Long slender necks and legs are the main features of these birds,
32

33
and in flight, their necks are folded back into the shape of an “S”, while the
outstretched legs trail well beyond the tail in many species.
DISTRIBUTION

Estimate their size

1
2
9
6 HABITAT USE
4 7 8

3 10

1. Great-billed Heron 6. Yellow-billed Heron

2. Purple Heron 7. Little Egret
3. Javan Pond Heron 8. Pacific Reef Egret
4. Cattle Egret 9. Chinese Egret
5. Striated Heron 10. Yellow Bittern Length: 100 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1, 2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Egretta intermedia

Intermediate Egret
Kuntul Perak

Like other egrets this species has a wide Old

World distribution from Africa through
Australasia, including Sumatra. It frequents
flooded rice paddies, ponds, lakes and
marshes, where it hunts mainly for small fish,
but also frogs and aquatic insects. Intermediate
Egrets usually forage by walking slowly in
shallow water (less than 8 centimetres deep)
or on wet fields, though they often stop and
peer closely at emergent vegetation,
Ardea purpurea sometimes moving the head slowly from side

Purple Heron to side as they do so. When motionless their

necks are held straight at an angle of 60
degrees (or 10 o'clock) or in a shallow S-shape.
Cangak Merah
This species nests in colonies with other egrets
and herons, and the closest heronry to Baluran
34

35
Common in other parts of Java and Bali, this species is rare in is probably at Petulu, near Ubud, in Bali,
Length: 69 cm
although other heronries occur on the Brantas
Baluran, where it has been spotted in justs a few locations. It Status: Least Concern
River delta, near Surabaya, and at Ujung National Law: 1,2
frequents marshes, paddy fields, fishponds and mangroves, and Pangkah, on the Solo River delta just to the Abundance: Common
often perches on the top of tall trees. It is very sensitive and north, as well as on the south coast of Madura Seasonality: Resident
reacts immediately when it notices humans. Island. Intermediate Egrets sometimes feed in Sociality: Normally solitary, sometimes in
small flocks or mixed-species flocks
Identification: A large heron, easily distinguished from other association with cattle, but not as habitually as
large gerons by long rufous neck with a black stripe down on do Cattle Egrets. In Baluran, it inhabits paddy
each side, and rufous on the shoulders and thighs. fields, often in company with other egret orange in plumage when breeding.
species in Gatel block. Slightly larger than the Little Egret,
Voice: Sometimes a harsh croak. Loud “raanka” and “raank” at
Identification: Medium-sized white heron with which has all-black, more slender bill
roost (Robson 2007). black legs, black-tipped yellow bill and pale or and in breeding plumage, long
greenish-yellow lores. Considerably larger than plumes on the neck.
the Cattle Egret, from which it is distinguished Voice: usually silent, but when
Length: 80 cm DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE by its size, black legs, longer, more slender bill disturbed produces hoarse croak
Status: Least Concern and longer neck; Cattle Egret also shows while flying.
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
 Little Egret
Kuntul Kecil
Egretta garzetta
Another widespread species with an Old World distribution from
Africa to Australasia, the Little Egret is represented by at least Egretta eulophotes
two races in Indonesia. Resident E. g. nigripes breeds in colonies
with other herons, the best known of which is on Pulau Dua,
where it is the second most abundant species after the Cattle Chinese Egret
Egret. Like the Intermediate Egret this species is commonly Kuntul Cina
found in paddy fields and freshwater swamps, but it also
frequently occupies coastal mangroves, mudflats and riverbanks.
Unlike the Intermediate Egret, the Little Egret is rarely still,
dashing here and there in pursuit of its prey, in shallows up to 15
centimetres deep, occasionally flapping or raising its wings to
maintain its balance (McKilligan 2005). When walking slowly it HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
periodically stirs the bottom mud with a foot to flush prey, which
consists of fish, as well as crustaceans, worms and aquatic
insects. This species regularly visits Baluran in small numbers
during the wet season from January to April. Locally it seems to
prefer flooded paddyfields, fish ponds, and mudflats.
Identification: Medium-sized white heron with longish, slender Length: 68 cm
all-black bill, black legs and feet (except migratory race of E.g. Status: Vulnerable
garzetta, which has yellow toes and has not been confirmed for National Law: 1,2
Java) and in breeding plumage, two long plumes draping from Abundance: Very rare
36

the nape. Cattle Egret differs in being smaller and dumpier, and
having yellowish bill and legs. The slightly larger Intermediate
Egret has a mostly yellow, thicker bill, and lacks the nape
plumes.
Voice: Not heard in park, but said to utter croaking calls at
breeding colonies.
Length: 60 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Sparse
Seasonality: Mostly wet
season visitor
Sociality: Solitary or in small
scattered flocks
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Unlike the other two Egretta species, this
species has a restricted distribution and a
small global population (less than 4,000
individuals), which, along with the loss of
its habitat due to reclamation of tidal
mudflats and estuarine habitats, qualifies
it as threatened species. It is currently
classified as Vulnerable to extinction. The
Chinese Egret breeds only on islands off
the coast of eastern Russia, North and
South Korea and China, and migrates
south during the boreal winter, mostly to
the Philippines and north Borneo. It occurs
in shallow tidal estuaries, mudflats and
bays, but only occasionally visits
paddyfields and fishponds. Like the Little
Egret, this species often walks rapidly in
shallows along the shores of such habitats,
chasing small fish and shrimps with wings
half or fully spread.
This species is a very scarce visitor to
Baluran, where one or two individuals
have been recorded each year since 2008
37
Seasonality: Wet season visitor
Sociality: Solitary
during the wet season between January
and April, when it might be expected to
occur in the region. It prefers to be forage
on its own, even driving away other
herons which attempt to feed in the same
place.
Identification: A medium-sized white
heron with dull greyish or yellowish-green
legs and toes, and mostly dusky-black bill
with yellowish base to lower mandible, in
non-breeding plumage. Resembles Little
Egret and white morph Pacific Reef-Egret,
except for larger size, and differs from
former in having greenish legs and
bicoloured bill; and from latter in having
mostly black bill and longer legs. Before
they depart (e.g. April), Chinese Egrets
may develop breeding plumage, when
they have a unique combination of bright
yellow bill, blue lores, black legs with
yellow toes and shaggy crest.
Voice: Not heard in park, but said to utter
low croaks when disturbed.

38
As its name suggests this species mostly
inhabits coral reefs and rocky shorelines
from Japan through Southeast Asia to
Australia, New Zealand and islands of
the Southwest Pacific. Rarely far from
the coast, it also uses mudflats along
tidal rivers, and occasionally, beaches.
The timing of foraging is dependent on
tides, so this species is active both by
day and night. Its usual hunting method
consists of standing in a crouched
posture, interspersed with walking
quickly or even running in pursuit of
prey, which consists mainly of crabs and
Length: 58 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rather rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary or in pairs
Pacific Reef Egret
Egretta sacra
Kuntul Karang
small fish, such as mudskippers, gobies
and blennies. This species nests solitarily
or in loose colonies, on rocky cliff ledges,
as well as in mangrove trees.
Identification: There are two colour
morphs: white and dark grey. In the park
all birds are dark grey. Its legs are
relatively short and greyish- or greenish-
yellow, while the bill is pale yellow
(white morph) or blackish above and
yellowish below (grey morph).
Voice: Generally quiet, but said to utter
hoarse croak when feeding.
HABITAT USE
Bubulcus ibis
Cattle Egret
Kuntul Kerbau
Historical records show that this bird has
expanded its range enormously during the
last century, demonstrating its amazing
powers of colonization. From Africa it
spread to the Americas, and from
Southeast Asia to Australia and New
Zealand, to achieve a nearly cosmopolitan
range. This range expansion is due, at least
in part, to its habitat preference, which
differs from those of most other heron
species. It originally inhabited African
flood plains, where it still associates with
the many native hoofed mammals, preying
on the insects, especially grasshoppers,
flushed by these grazing herbivores. As
forests and woodlands were cleared
around the world to create pasture for
domesticated livestock, the equivalent of
wild bovines, additional habitat was
created for the pre-adapted Cattle Egret.
They forage by walking quickly beside their
DISTRIBUTION 'hosts' and gleaning, but also standing or
even aerial flycatching. Common and
widespread throughout Java and Bali, this
species nests in large rookeries containing
up to 4,000 pairs, such as that at Pulau
Dua, West Java, usually with other egret
Length: 50 cm
Status: Least concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Usually in small flocks, rarely alone.
and heron species.The commonest egret in
Baluran, this species frequents
39
paddyfields, especially flooded ones,
where it probably catches frogs and
tadpoles, where it may be seen foraging
alongside the cattle, capturing flies and
other insects attracted to, or disturbed by,
these animals as they walk through the
grass.
Identification: Small stocky white heron,
distinguishable from other egret species
by its smaller, often hunched body, and
proportionally shorter bill, neck and legs.
The bill and lores are yellow, and legs grey-
green. In breeding season, unmistakable,
as head, neck, breast and back become
orange, some of which may be retained
after breeding.
Voice: Generally silent, but said to utter
croaks at nesting colonies
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
 Striated Heron
Butorides striata

Kokokan Laut
Restricted in its global range to the Southeast Asia, this
Javan Pond Heron
Blekok Sawah
Ardeola speciosa
species is found through much of Indonesia, from South
Sumatra eastwards to Sulawesi and Flores, as well as in
part of Indo-China, yet is only a vagrant to the Thai-Malay
Peninsula where the migratory Chinese Pond Heron
regularly visits (Wells 1999). In Java, this is the most
frequently encountered heron in rice paddyfields, both on
the coast and inland (Holmes and Nash 1989). Other
habitats include mangroves, mudflats, freshwater
marshes and mountain lakes (Mason and Jarvis 1989). It is
a passive feeder, remaining motionless for long periods
with body crouched and head retracted, poised to attack
fish, frogs, tadpoles, and aquatic insects that pass close by
Almost cosmopolitan in its distribution, wetland habitats in Baluran, including
(Handbook Of The Birds Of The World). Like other herons,
it nests colonially, in large rookeries, such as the heronry the Striated Heron (elsewhere known as mangrove forest, estuaries, fish ponds,
at Pulau Dua, where over 900 pairs bred between the Green-backed or Mangrove Heron) and paddy fields. An active nest was
February and June in the 1980s (Mason and Jarvis 1989), shows considerable variation in found in the mangroves forest in Gatel
and at Petulu, near Ubud, Bali. plumage coloration among its 30 odd Block in May 2009.
The most common member of the heron family in Baluran races. Commonest in mangroves or on Identification: A small, stocky grey
DISTRIBUTION
, the Pond Heron occupies a wide range of wetland mudflats in estuaries or along tidal heron. Much of body slate-grey with
habitats, including paddyfields, estuaries, fish ponds, and rivers, as well as on reefs, this species is pale edges to darker wing feathers;
40

even rain-fed ponds in the middle of the savanna. During
the day these birds are dispersed, but in the evening they
gather in flocks to fly to their communal roost site.
Identification: Small heron, with white wings and tail
HABITAT USE contrasting with dark brown back in flight. Breeding
plumage: pale creamy-buff head and neck, dark rufous
breast, maroon-black mantle and scapulars, and white
belly; also black-tipped, orange-yellow bill with blue patch
at base, and greenish-yellow lores. Non-breeding adults
and juveniles have brown black of mantle replaced by
brown, while the head, neck and breast are buffy-white
boldly streaked darker brown.
Voice: Croaky “krak” when flying, usually
after disturbed.
Length: 45 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 2
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary or in
scattered flocks.
also at home in freshwater habitats,
such as fish ponds and lakes, and along
rivers well inland. It hunts during both
the day and night, mostly by standing in
a crouched posture, waiting for fish,
crabs or other marine invertebrates to
swim past, but also by stalking furtively
in slow motion, before lunging forwards
to stab its victim. It is also known to
hunt by running, foot stirring, baiting,
aerial feeding and even diving,
sometimes with its head or neck
swaying and tail wagging. Nesting is
normally solitary, but sometimes loose
colonies are formed, although not with
other heron species.
The Striated Heron is common in all
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
41
glossy black crown with elongated
feathers on the nape (especially in
breeding season) which may be raised
to form a crest; blackish line running
from base of bill to cheek, with white
lines above and below; white mid-
throat bordered by grey line, continuing
down to breast. Legs are greenish-
yellow legs and bill black above and
yellow below. Juveniles are streaked on
the head, neck and underparts, and the
wings are spotted whitish.
Voice: More vocal than most herons,
invariably giving loud “whok” when
flushed. In flight, guttural “keeyo” or
“kyok” often repeated.
Length: 45 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
Ixobrychus sinensis
Yellow Bittern
Bambangan Kuning
Widespread from India through East and
Southeast Asia to New Guinea, the
Yellow Bittern is a breeding resident in
Sumatra, but a visitor to Java and Bali,
and islands further east, in the wet
season only. Such visitors probably
emanate from migratory populations
that breed in Southeast Russia or Central
China. Whereas several decades ago this
species was a scarce wet season visitor
to Borneo and Singapore, it is now a
common and widespread resident of
paddyfields around these islands. Its
changing status is probably due to the
expansion of agriculture, as this species
frequents paddyfields and drainage
canals, as well as reed beds in marshes,
lakes and ponds. Like other bitterns, it is
very secretive, and when disturbed,
“freezes” with its neck stretched
vertically, bill pointing skyward, and both
eyes peering forwards to watch the
intruder. It hunts by standing still and
waiting, or climbing slowly among reeds,
stalking insects and their larvae¸ as well
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
as small fish, crustaceans and molluscs,
often flicking its tail, erecting its crest, or
flapping one wing at a time to startle
prey.
This species is a regular visitor to
Baluran in small numbers during the wet
season, especially in January and
February. It has been seen in wet
paddyfields and marshes in the Gatel
and Perengan blocks.
Identification: A small heron, easily
distinguished in flight when yellowish-
buff wing coverts contrast with black
43
wing quills. Pale yellowish-rufous
upperparts with black stripe along
crown (males) and tail, and pale buff
underparts with whitish throat and
foreneck. The bill is yellow with blackish
along the top of the upper mandible,
and the legs greenish-yellow. Juveniles
are browner, heavily streaked with black
above and white below.
Voice: Generally silent; said to give a
soft staccato “kakak kakak” in flight.
Length: 38 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rather rare
Seasonality: Wet season visitor
Sociality: Solitary
 Family Order
Estimate their size
Ciconiiformes
Ciconiidae
1
1. Lesser Adjutant
2. Wooly-necked Stork
3. Little Egret

Stork, Adjutant
Flight 2

L ike herons, storks have long legs and a long stout bill, but the neck is shorter
in most species, and when flying it is outstretched instead of being folded
back into an 'S' shape. Although many species in other parts of the world
migrate over large distances, the three storks that occur regularly on Java are not
migratory, but apparently move widely around the island or to neighbouring
Slow flapping, alternating
with gliding; also soaring at
high altitudes
3

islands. Storks often use thermals of rising air to soar high into the sky, thereby
conserving energy while spotting potential feeding grounds far below. Less
dependent on wetlands than herons, they feed on a variety of aquatic and
terrestrial prey, including fish, carrion and insects. Bill clattering is the only form of
communication. Only three species have been recorded in Baluran National Park.
Ciconia episcopus

Wooly-necked Stork
44

45
Bangau Sandang-lawe

This species is rare in Baluran, having been

seen in only a few locations. It forages in
wetlands as well as in savanna grasslands,
but when not feeding it may perch in tall
trees. Although it is known to form large
flocks, records in Baluran are for 3-5
individuals only. It is very sensitive and
usually reacts quickly when it notices
human presence.
Identification: Glossy purplish / greenish-
black back and wings, black cap, white
neck, blackish bill, dull red legs.
Voice: only bill-clattering

Length: 86 cm
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Usually in
small group
 Leptoptilos javanicus

Bangau Tongtong
Lesser Adjutant

Individuals and small groups of this species occur

along the coast from Bama to Kalitopo. It is normally
only seen if the tide is low, when it forages among the
sea grass beds, sometimes close to the Great-Billed
46

47
Heron. However, it also visits savanna grasslands,
where it forages on the ground, occasionally close to
Green Peafowl, or perches high in exposed dead trees.
Its prey includes fish,frogs and even small birds, and
small insects, in Baluran, it has been observed feeding
on rats.
Identification: Easily recognized by its pale pink naked
head and neck, black back and wings, and white
underparts. Its long neck is covered with yellow
feathers, and its eyes are surrounded by red skin.
Voice: as other storks, quiet with just clattering of
bills.

Length: 110 cm
Status: Vulnerable DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Usually solitary or
in small groups.
 Family Order Estimate their size in flight
Accipitridae Falconiformes 1
2
3
4
5
8
9
10

Eagles, Buzzards, Kites, Goshawks 6 7

T his is the largest family within

the order of diurnal birds of prey
or raptors (Falconiformes),
occurring throughout the world except
for Antarctica. The capture, holding
and dismembering of prey requires
specialized equipment, and all raptors
possess a hooked bill, the base of
than that of humans - that is used to
spot prey from a long distance.
Hearing is also acute. In most hawks
and eagles, the females are larger
than the males, although in some 1. Crested Honey Buzzard 6. Crested Goshawk
groups, they are less brightly coloured. 2. Black-winged Kite
3. White-bellied Sea Eagle
7. Japanese Sparrowhawk
8. Black Eagle
Juveniles of most species differ quite 4. Short-toed Snake Eagle 9. Crested Hawk-Eagle
markedly from adults in coloration and 5. Crested Serpent Eagle 10. Javan Hawk-Eagle

which is covered with a fleshy markings of plumage, and even the

membrane called the cere, and strong
curved claws, called talons, on their
feet. The legs vary in thickness and
length among species, depending on
the type of prey taken. Eagles that
prey on large mammals have strong,
48
adult plumage of many species is
variable (polymorphic), all of which Pernis ptilorhynchus
makes identification of raptors rather
difficult. Flight characteristics and
underwing markings are often the
Crested Honey Buzzard
best clues to their identity. Some
Sikepmadu Asia

49
thick legs, while Sparrowhawks which species have an obvious crest on the
feed on small birds have longer and nape, while others will raise their head
more slender legs. The serpent-eagle feathers like a crest when disturbed or Regularly visitor in Baluran but not in large number, only
has thicker scales on its legs which excited. Nests are untidy-looking, 3-4 individuals in each migratory season. Despite to its
name, this eagle likes honey as its feed, also small
help to protect it from snake bites. often large, constructions of sticks mammals preying in savanna or in forest. Often seen
Members of this family have very built high in trees. on savanna.
sharp eyesight - about 8 times sharper Identification: Easily to identify by its slimmer
body and long neck, both while flying or
Flight perching. Has a very un-raptor-like facial
appearance due to the grey mask-like face.
Dark brown upperparts then paler on below.
Distinguished sexes: the male has grey mask-
The long, broad wings of eagles, often with distinct like face then brown on female. Female also
“fingers” at the tips, are used to soar high into the sky, has darker and larger body length. Long tail.
from where prey may be spotted over long distances. Voice: Never heard in Baluran
Hunting from perches inside forest or woodland,
goshawks (or sparrowhawks) and buzzards, have
shorter, more rounded wings that are more effective in
Length: 50 cm HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
short-range ambush attacks, during which the wings are Status: Least Concern
quickly flapped, then held flat in a fast glide. All groups Law: 1,2
use thermal to gain height quickly, especially before Abundance: Very Rare
making long distance movements, such as when Seasonality: Migrant
migrating. Sociality: Solitary

Elanus caeruleus
Black-winged Kite
Elang Tikus
This species has a wide range across Asia,
and is sparsely distributed throughout
Java. At Baluran, it is most frequently
found in the savanna around Bekol during
the dry season (recorded in July, August
and September) when it preys upon rats
that use cracks in the clay soils to give
birth and keep their litters. Although rats
form the majority of their food, they are
also known to eat water birds, lizards and
insects. Most prey are caught close to a
perch, where these birds spend up to 80%
of their day. Black-winged Kites have a
falcon-like flight, with fast and silent wing
flaps, and like kestrels, often hover
50
Length: 30 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary or in pairs
motionless about 15-20 m above the
ground, then drop onto their prey with
wings up-stretched, and take off vertically
from the ground.
Identification: Easy to recognize by its
generally white plumage when viewed
from a distance, and the black shoulder
and wing tips are obvious in flight. A black
ring around the eyes give this raptor an
owl-like mask. The Javan race is E.c.
intermedius.
Voice: Very seldom heard, but reputedly a
soft whistling "whiip, whiip” especially
during flight.
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Haliaeetus leucogaster
White-bellied Sea Eagle
Elanglaut Perut-putih
This powerful fish-eating eagle is typically found perched on the top of tall bare
trees on the beach or in mangrove forests, but it can also be seen soaring above
Mount Baluran. Its long, broad wings are used in soaring, and to keep its large
body stable as it grabs fish from the water surface after a long dive. However
these birds occasionally steal or scavenge food from other birds. In the
northwest of the park a pair built their large, bulky stick nest about 25
meters from the ground on a high voltage electricity tower, and visited
it throughout the year.
Identification: Adult has unmistakable plumage; in flight, long,
broad upswept wings, and short wedge-shaped tail are
characteristic; when perched note unfeathered legs. Adult:
head, neck and underparts are white; wings, back and tail
are grey, but flight feathers black. Immature: head and
underparts pale buff-brown; wings and back dark
brown; flight feathers black with whitish patch
51
as base of outer wing.
Voice: A loud shout hornbill-like
"ah-ah-ah..." (MacKinnon et al.
1998).
Adult
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Length: 70 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary or in
pairs
Immature
 Sircaetus gallicus
Short-toed Snake Eagle
Elangular Jari-pendek
Until recently, Baluran National Park was the
only location in Java where the Short-toed
Snake eagle had been seen. In Asia this
species is resident in India and Pakistan, but
there is also a migratory breeding population
in North China and an even more isolated
resident population in Nusa Tenggara (from
Lombok to Timor). Chinese birds migrate
south during the northern winter
(December-February), as far as the Malay
Peninsula, but have not yet been recorded in
Sumatra or Borneo. In Baluran single birds
are usually seen soaring around the savanna
at Bekol, but also over monsoon forest,
mainly in the dry season. Since 2008 the
52
species has been recorded in five months
from April to December, suggesting that
these visitors are from Nusa Tenggara, rather
than China.
Although best known for its predilection for
snakes, this eagle also preys upon small
mammals, and at Bekol has been observed
feeding on the Rats that use cracks in the
savanna soils to rear their young. It has a
similar flight style to the Black-winged Kite,
and sometimes hovers.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Identification: A stocky, large-
headed and pale-looking eagle with
long, broad wings held almost flat
in flight, and unfeathered legs.
White underparts, with some black
barring, and greyish-brown upper
parts, including head, giving a dark-
hooded appearance; from below,
tail and wings look whitish, with
indistinct dark bands. Young birds
are said to be paler.
Voice: Usually silent
Length: 65 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 2
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
Spilornis cheela
Crested Serpent Eagle
Elangular Bido
This is the most common eagle in Baluran National Park,
found in almost all types of vegetation. As its name
suggests, this species preys upon snakes (up to 1 metre
long or more), but it is also known to take lizards, frogs,
birds and even crabs. In Baluran, it has also been seen
carrying squirrels. Its usual hunting method is to perch quietly on
the branch of a tall tree overlooking an opening in the forest or on
the forest edge, then drop swiftly to the ground or understory to
snatch its prey. However the first sign of this bird is often its somewhat
melancholy cry, frequently given as it soars for long periods over forest,
plantation and savanna. Paired birds may also be heard duetting whilst
soaring together, when they sometimes perform impressive courtship
displays by raising the head and tail, and even diving at one another.
Identification: Easily recognized in flight by the bold white and black trailing edge to its
long, broad wings, which appear somewhat rounded due to a sudden narrowing (or
notch) where they meet the body, and the slight forward angle of the leading edge; the
relatively short tail is black with a single broad white band. When soaring its wings are
53
held upswept in a “V”, and when perched, they look like a mantle covering its body.
Upperparts are dark grey-brown while underparts are paler, with white spots below
the breast. Bare yellow skin between the eyes and bill are diagnostic, and there is a
short, bushy crest at the rear of its dark crown.
DISTRIBUTION Voice: Very vocal, with loud “kli-liu”,
“kwiik-kwi” in flights;
also a penetrating
“ke-liik-lik” and
a soft
“kokokoko”.
HABITAT USE
Length: 50 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, or in pairs
 Length: 40 cm Length: c. 25-31 cm (Robson 2000)
Status: Least Concern Accipiter trivirgatus Accipiter gularis
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Crested Goshawk Japanese Sparrowhawk National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Migrant
Sociality: Solitary
Elangalap Jambul Elangalap Nipon Sociality: Solitary
54

55
This hawk is usually spotted in flight, when feature is rarely obvious. It is best This migratory raptor breeds in Siberia and with narrow rusty-pink barring; red eye.
it is easiest to photograph. When perched identified by the black moustachial stripe north China, as well as Japan, and migrates Female larger, with brown (not grey)
it is highly sensitive and immediately flees separating the grey cheeks from the white south to Indochina and Indonesia to upperparts, underparts white barred grey-
when it notices the arrival of humans. But throat, which also has one black mesial escape the cold winter months brown except on vent; yellow eye.
if you are quiet and lucky you may see it stripe. In flight, has rounded wings, held (September-April). Many hundreds of Immature: like adults but rufous edges to
perching on a branch under the forest flat when gliding, finely barred these birds migrate through Java to Bali, feathers of back, pale eyebrow, and breast
canopy, where it watches for birds and underneath. usually in the company of many thousands streaked brown, with some barring on
of Chinese Goshawks A. soloensis. belly .
small mammals on, or close to the ground, Adults: grey head, and grey-brown wings
Although the latter species is seen Similar size to Besra (c. 23-32 cm), which
before it dives on them, returning to a and tail; breast rufous with irregular white regularly in Baluran during the wet season, has blackish streaks on upper breast, more
secluded perch to dismantle and devour steaks, belly white with blackish barring; the Japanese Sparrowhawk has been distinct mesial stripe and slightly shorter
them. It prefers the monsoon forest, rarely tail with four black bands. Immature: head recorded (and photographed) only once. wings (Robson 2000); male has darker
being observed in the savanna. paler, upperparts barred buff, underparts These raptors feed almost exclusively on upperparts than male Japanese
A nest of these birds was found in a Kendal streaked brown, and tail with narrow birds, including munias, bulbuls and doves, Sparrowhawk, whereas female is paler,
tree (Cordia obligua) in dense forest during bands which they usually ambush from tree with contrasting darker crown.
September 2008. It contained two chicks Voice: Shrill “hi-hi-hi-hi-hi” and a long wail. perches on the forest edge or in open Voice: not heard in Baluran, and little
that were estimated to be 14 days old, In breeding season weaker “wliik wliik areas. A short chase often ensues before confirmed information available
having downy white feathers on the head wliik ciwliik ciwlik”. the sparrowhawk stikes its victim. They
and breast, and being able to stand also probably spot prey while soaring in
upright. After 13 days the chicks were DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
circles high into the sky on flat wings.
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
able to fly out of the nest, but not out of Identification: Sexes differ. Adult male:
the tree. dark grey upperparts and tail, the latter
Identification: The largest local Accipiter with four dark bands; white throat with
(goshawks and sparrowhawks) and the thin, indistinct black mesial stripe;
only one with a crest, though this breast and belly pale pinkish or white
 Ictinaetus malayensis
Black Eagle
Elang Hitam
This unusual eagle is the only member of its genus.
Though found from India through Indonesia almost
to Papua, and widespread in Java, the Black Eagle is
quite a rare resident in the park, most frequently
seen on Mount Baluran. It appears to prefer
evergreen hill forest, where it perches in densely-
foliaged trees, or circles low over the canopy,
watching for prey. Its unusual foot with a short
outer toe and less curved talons is possibly an
adaptation for snatching prey, including bird
nestlings (with nest!) and small mammals, from
tree tops, but also bats from cave walls
(MacKinnon and Phillipps 1993; Phillipps and
56
Phillipps 2009).
Identification: Adult: Large body size with
black or brownish black colour.
Proportionately small head and wings, widest
towards tip and with long upswept “fingers” at the
tip. Long, rounded tail and fully-feathered legs.
Yellow eyes. Immature (shown): Very different.
Pale buff-brown head and underparts, including
wing-coverts, boldy streaked blackish-brown,
more mottled on belly; underside of tail and flight
feathers brown finely barred buff, with buff patch
at base of outer wing.
Voice: Generally quiet, but in breeding season loud
“klii-kli”, or “hi-lii-liiuw” both while perching and in flight;
during display flights, shrill “kip, kip, kip” or “kii, kii, kii…”.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Length: 70 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Usually in pairs
Nisaetus bartelsi
J Javan Hawk-Eagle
Elang Jawa
The existence of this iconic Javan-endemic
raptor in Baluran National Park was thought to
be a myth for many years as this species prefers
evergreen forest in mountainous terrain, at
least in the west of the island. Based on several
observations and the existing photos on 2009.
However one bird was trapped by a poacher in
2005, but there were no further records of this
species in the park until 2009, when an adult was
watched for an extended period around the crater
of Mount. When it was observed, it was like a
“territorial battle” between it two other eagles: Crested
Serpent Eagle and Black Eagle. Although this individual may have been a visitor
57
from the Maelang-Ijen mountains, south of Baluran, the reappearance of this
species offers a little hope for its future in the park.
Prior to 1993 few Javan Hawk-Eagles were observed in trade and none were kept in
zoos, but in that year the species was declared Indonesia's National Rare/ Precious
Animal, by former President Soeharto, and soon afterwards they were regularly
observed in markets in Javan towns (e.g. 20 in 2004) and by 2003 there were 11 in
six zoos throughout Java (ignoring c. 10 that died in captivity), all captured illegally.
It seems that the well-intentioned publicity (banners, stamps and book covers)
attracted attention to the bird from collectors, especially those who wanted to
display their social status by keeping rare and expensive birds.
Identification: Distinct black crest (2-4 cm long; visible only when perched) and
crown blackish; yellowish to chestnut brown nape and sides of head, with dark
brown back, wings and tail, the latter with four black bars; white throat with 2-4
black stripes down the center, and bordered by black 'moustachial' stripe; breast
and belly whitish, barred rufous.
Voice: Shrilly whistle “ii-iii” or “iiw-iii”, given once or twice; sometimes “ii-ii-iiiw”.
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION Length: 60 cm
Status: Endangered
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Nisaetus cirrhatus
Crested Hawk-Eagle
58
Elang Brontok
Called the Crested Hawk-Eagle, this
species has a less marked crest than
most other species of hawk-eagles.
This name 'Changeable' refers to its
two distinct adult plumages (morphs),
both of which occur in Baluran. The
dark morph appears commonest in
the east of the park, making it easy to
see along the road from Batangan to
Bekol, as well as at Bekol itself, and
Bama. The light morph is spread fairly
evenly throughout the park, and
juveniles of this form are easily found
around Bekol. These birds are often
seen perched on the bare branches of
living or dead trees in savanna or
monsoon forest. Here they watch for
their prey which comprises birds,
reptiles and mammals. Nests in high
and large trees up to 20 meters such as
Kepuh (Sterculia foetida). Three nests
observed in dry season (June-August)
in monsoon forest.
Identification: When perched, body
looks rather slender, and legs “spindly”
due to covering of short feathers to
toes (Wells 1999). Dark morph adults
are uniformly blackish-brown and
superficially similar to Black Eagle
except for smaller size and slimmer
appearance and black tip to paler tail.
Adult light morph has mid-brown
upperparts, and underparts are
whitish with blackish streaks, except
for thighs and undertail coverts which
are barred rufous; streaked head with
dark “moustachial” and mesial (central
throat) lines; tail barred, with broader
59
terminal bars. Juvenile pale morph
has white head and underparts;
wing and mantle feathers are dark
brown fringed whitish. Broad wings
rather square (with parallel edges),
held flat when soaring; tail long and
square-ended.
Voice: It is usually silent, except in
the breeding season; calls include
loud "klii-liiuw", similar to the
Crested Serpent Eagle.
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Length: 70 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Family
Falconidae
Falcons and Kestrels
60
D
escribed as the “jet fighters” of the avian world,
falcons are able to achieve remarkable speeds
when diving on their flying prey, making them
amongst the fastest animals on the planet. Pointed
wings and a a “tooth” on the hooked bill distinguish
them from other diurnal raptors, and most nest in tree-
holes or on cliffs rather than build a stick nest. Flying
birds and large insects are the usual prey, but small
reptiles on the ground are also taken. Eight species of
falcons occur in the Greater Sundas, five of which can be
found on the island of Java, and four of which occur in
Baluran National Park: the Black-thighed Falconet,
whose global range is mainly west of Java (but includes
Bali, where it is scarce) and the Spotted Kestrel, whose
range extends from Java eastwards to Timor; and the
cosmopolitan Peregrine Falcon, which is rare in the park.
Ordo
Falconiformes
Flight
Fast flapping, then gliding, or
diving; sometimes calling in a
high-pitched voice. Also
spectacular displays,
including high speed chases,
aerobatics and talon-
grappling.
DISTRIBUTION
Estimate their size
1 2
Microhierax fringillarius
Black-thighed Falconet
Alapalap Capung
This tiny bird seems too small to be a
raptor, and its behavior is more
reminiscent of a flycatcher than a
falcon! It is usually found perching
quietly on a dead branch near the top
of a tall live or dead tree, on the edge
of forests or plantations where it
surveys the surroundings for aerial
prey, which largely comprises insects
such as termites, moths and
butterflies, dragonflies, crickets and
beetles. However in Baluran one was
seen eating a Cave Swiftlet presumably
caught in flight. Most prey is caught
during relatively short sorties from a
perch, to which the bird usually
returns, whether successful in its chase
HABITAT USE
1. Crested Goshawk
2. Spotted Kestrel
3. Black-thighed Falconet
or not. As they sit, their posture
61
appears bent, and birds sometimes
indulge in bobbing at the perch. Luckily
these birds are not sensitive to
disturbance, and very approachable -
unless you try creeping from behind!
They sleep and nest in old woodpecker
or barbet holes (Wells 1999).
Identification: Predominantly black
upperparts, with white patches on the
head, and white below, with dark
orange on the belly. Immature birds
have orange on the head both behind,
and in front of, the eyes, and the bill is
orange rather than black.
Voice: When perched, loud shrill
"syiuw followed by "kli-kli-kli-kli".
Length: 15 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Usually in pairs or small groups,
which hunt socially (Wells 1999)
 Falco moluccensis

Spotted Kestrel In
Alapalap Sapi

Although generally uncommon in Baluran National Park, two or three pairs are found in
the open savanna at Bekol, sometimes with the Black-winged Kite. In contrast to other
falcons, kestrels soar relatively low over open ground in search of their prey (such as
rodents, lizards and insects), then hover for a while above it before diving onto it. After
killing or maiming its prey on the ground the bird flies to a nearby perch where it can
dismember and devour it. It frequently perches on top of a bush or small tree. Whilst
nesting has not yet been observed in the Park, the high cliffs at Unggahan Asem Block
and Balanan, as well as cliffs and barren slopes in the crater of Mount Baluran, would
make suitable nest sites.
Identification: The male is dark brown above, with thick black bands or
spots covering the back and wings, and finer streaks on the head,
while the underparts are pale orange-brown with thick black
streaks, except on the throat which is bordered by a blackish Falco peregrinus
“moustache”. The female is larger than the male, and its tail is
barred pale grey and black, unlike that of the male, which
is mostly grey, with a black bar near the tip. The Javan Peregrine Falcon
62

63
island race is F. m. javensis.
Voice: quite noisy for a raptor. The most frequent
Alapalap Kawah
call is a shrill “kiik-kiik-kiik” or “rrrit-rrrit-rrrit”,
often in flight. One of observed falcon in rats breeding season in savanna,
though more lesser than its brother Spotted Kestrel. Has a
DISTRIBUTION
preying way like as other falcon: spotting the prey from high or
opened perch place then diving in high speed, grab and neutralize
its prey on the ground. Often grabbed its prey in the air. Well
known as the fastest bird on the planet.
Identification: Large-size falcon. Dark. Head, cheek, and
upperparts are dark blue. Throat until breast are white. Scaly
HABITAT USE belly until vent. Yellow large and strong legs and toed.
Voice: Never heard in the park

DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE

Length: 45 cm
Status: Least Concern
Length: 30 cm National Law: 1,2
Status: Least Concern Abundance: Rare
Law: 1,2 Seasonality: Resident and
Abundance: Rare migrant
Seasonality: Resident Sociality: Solitary or in
Sociality: Solitary or in pairs pairs.
 Family Ordo

Anatidae Anseriformes Estimate their size

1 2 3

Ducks and Geese

1. Sunda Teal
2. Beach Stone-curlew
3. Green Junglefowl

Anas cf gibberifrons

In Sunda Teal
M edium-sized to large (30-180 cm long)
water birds found in a wide variety of
aquatic habitats in all regions of the globe
Flight

except the Antarctic. Although ten species Gaining or maintaining

Itik Benjut
64

of ducks have been recorded in Java and Bali, few are
breeding residents, and only three may be found in
Baluran. Ducks are easily recognized with their broad requires continuous, fast
flattened and round-tipped bill, plump body and
short legs with fully-webbed toes. In flight the neck
appears long, wings short and pointed and tail short.
Eating aquatic plants or small aquatic invertebrate
animals, they employ various methods of
foraging, the most widely used being
surface-feeding (or dabbling), diving and
grazing. Serrated lamellae inside the bill
are an adaptation for those that filter
plankton. In many species the male is
more brightly colored than the female,
especially when entering the breeding
season. Duck as are very sociable,
gathering in flocks
sometimes composed
of hundreds of
birds.
As its name implies, you can identify this
momentum in the air
bird from the prominent forehead. The
Indonesian word for ducks is “itik” while
beating. the Javanese word “benjut” used for this
species refers to the bump on its head
that suggests the result of a collision with
a hard object. This bird is not common in
Baluran, being limited to coastal areas in
the north of the park, and the Bama Block
in the east. It may be found resting in the
Chicks
Adult Female
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
65
mangrove forest, swimming in muddy
rivers, or feeding in flooded paddyfields
before the rice is planted.
Identification: The obvious bump on the
forehead is only on males. Generally
grey-brown, with whitish cheeks and
throat contrasting the dark crown. On
both the upperside and underside of the
inner wing there is a white central bar,
visible only in flight, and as with many
other duck species, a patch of metallic-
green (speculum) on the upperside of the
inner flight feathers.
Voice: A repeated "Pip" while flying when
disturbed.
Length: 42 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rather Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs or small
flocks
 Family Ordo
Phasianidae
Patridge, Pheasant, Junglefowl, Peafowl
Galliformes
A
lthough everyone is familiar with the 'chicken', 'poultry' or Flight
'domestic fowl' that provides meat and eggs to people all over
the world, few realize that these birds are all descendant from a
pheasant called the Red Jungle Fowl. The original species still Run fast before
occurs in the wild from northeast India, where they were first flying with rapid
domesticated at least 4,000 years ago, through Indo-China and much of wing beats
Indonesia (except Kalimantan), although it is likely that they were
introduced to most islands east of Bali. Those people that first
domesticated this bird could never have dreamed how vital its descendents would become
to mankind as a food source and in neurobiological research. Six members of this family
occur in Java: two partridges, two jungle-fowl, a quail and a peafowl.
Gallus gallus Length: Male: 70 cm, Female: 42 cm
Status: Least Concern
Red Junglefowl National Law: -
Abundance: Very Rare
Ayamhutan Merah Seasonality: Resident
66
Sociality: Solitary (male) or small family groups
Although feral populations of domesticated
fowl are widespread through Indonesia,
wild populations of this species are now
rare in most parts of Java - including
Baluran - except perhaps in national parks
in the west. In stark contrast to its
domesticated counterpart, wild birds are
very sensitive to human presence, possibly
moreso than the commoner Green
Junglefowl. It seems to prefer forest edge,
where it forages for seeds and fallen fruit,
as well as invertebrate animals, amongst
the litter, and by night roosts well up in a
tree, away from would-be predators.
Identification: Male: distinguished from
male Green Junglefowl by jagged (serrated)
red comb and throat wattle skin, reddish-
orange neck, with elongated 'hackles', and
reddish-chestnut back. Female: generally
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION brown with fine whitish streaks; streaked
black and yellowish on head and neck;
pinkish facial skin and greyish legs.
Voice: The familiar dawn and dusk “cock-a-
doodle-doo”crowing of the male is rarely
heard in the park.
Estimate their size
1
2 3
1. Green Peafowl
2. Green Junglefowl
3. Red Junglefowl
Length: Male: 60 cm, Female: 40 cm
Gallus Varius Status: Least Concern
Green Junglefowl In National Law: -
Abundance: Very Common
Seasonality: Resident
Ayamhutan Hijau Sociality: Groups and solitary males.
One of the 'special' birds of Baluran, the
global range of this attractive pheasant is
restricted to Java and Bali, and the islands of
West Nusa Tenggara to the east. In the
afternoon, they often visit the Bekol savanna
in large groups or re-emerge on the road.
Prefer open areas. Although typically on the
ground, where they forage for insects and
67
seeds, they also roost during the late
afternoon and evening on low branches. Not
as shy as the Red Junglefowl, this species
prefers to walk off into the shrubs, rather
than fly, when disturbed. Many of these
birds were once trapped and hybridized with
domestic fowl to produce male offspring
that were prized for their vocal prowess and
used in song competitions. The hybrids were
even declared provincial bird of East Java in
1980, resulting in an increase in illegal trade
in this species (Handbook Of The Birds Of
The World), but fortunately they are secure
in Baluran. Identification: Male: easily
distinguished from male Red Junglefowl by
pale blue and purple, rounded (not serrated)
comb, yellow patch on throat wattle, and
glossy dark green neck and back with scaly
appearance. Female: differs from female Red
Junglefowl in having bold black barring and DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
scaling on upperparts, and paler underparts,
whitish on throat; pinkish legs.
Voice: short, harsh "kuk-rohhh" or 3 note
call “chow-a-aaar” heard throughout much
of the day.
 Pavo muticus
Green Peafowl
Merak Hijau
Arguably the 'star' bird of Baluran, as it
is easier to see here than perhaps
anywhere else on earth, the Green
Peafowl is much less well known that its
Indian cousin, the Blue Peafowl, but just
as magnificant. Formerly found from
northeast India through Myanmar and
across Indo-China, as well as Java, it is
virtually extinct in India and Bangladesh,
and no longer occurs in Peninsular
Thailand and Malaysia due to over-
hunting. The curiously isolated Javan
population survives in Ujung Kulon
National Park on the western tip of the
island, and Baluran and Alas Purwo
National Parks in the east. Due to rapidly
declining and severely fragmented
68
populations on the Asian mainland
resulting from habitat conversion and
hunting, IUCN consider the species as
Endangered.
Fortunately, in Baluran this majestic bird
is easy to find because it prefers
monsoon forest and savanna more than
dense forest, and is frequently
encountered along the roads. Although
there are records of the species at
altitudes above 1000 m asl, it does not
seem to occur in the highland forests (in
Baluran mount) in Baluran. It spends
much of the day foraging on
the forest floor, but in the evening, as
well as the late afternoon, it roosts in
moderately tall trees (up to 20-25
meters).
The courtship display of male Green
Peafowls is surely one of nature's most
beautiful visual performances, and a
significant feature of Baluran during the
peak breeding season from August to
October, when males can be seen
displaying. During the display the male
prances, while raising and fanning his
spectacularly long and colourful 'train',
which is (contrary to appearances) not
composed of tail feathers but up to 120
greatly elongated uppertail coverts
instead.
Peafowls are polygamous, successful
males having a harem of females. During
the courtship period, mature males
cluster together into a 'lek' for the
purpose of attracting females with
which to copulate. Females
wander through the lek
singly or in groups
visiting the
males,
and re-visiting a preferred male many
times before finally copulating with
him. In the Blue Peafowl, and
presumably the Green Peafowl,
females choose the male with the
most eye- spots on his train, and since
the train increases in splendor as the
male ages, so probably does his
mating success. But males also defend
their space within the lek, and when
one intrudes into the other's space,
vigorous fighting may ensue. In the
rainy season (December or January)
when these birds moult many people
search for the male's shed train
feathers which are then sold as
ornaments or souvenirs. The three to
six eggs (Handbook Of The Birds Of
The World) are placed in a nest just
above the ground in dry grass, where
they incubated for 26-28 days by the
female alone.
Identification: Male: unmistakable
due to its large size, long neck, tall
vertical crest, and in mature birds,
long train. Plumage is mainly
iridescent green, bluer on the crown.
Light brown flight feathers are clearly
visible both in flight and at rest.
Female: similar to male but duller and
shorter-legged, and lacking train
(Handbook Of The Birds Of The
World).
Voice: male heard throughout the
day, especially when entering the
69
breeding season, with loud "co-wok",
or a long howl.
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Length: Male: 180-250 cm (including train
of 140-160 cm), Female: 100-110 cm
Status: Endangered
National Law: 1, 2
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Females in groups of two to six,
Males generally solitary except in mating
season.
 Family
Turnicidae
Buttonquail
S mall, plump, almost tail-less ground-dwelling
birds with short legs, buttonquails resemble
true quails (in the family Phasianidae), but lack
both a hind toe and an internal crop to store seed.
Unlike most birds in which the sexes differ in size and
plumage, the female buttonquail is the larger and
more brightly coloured sex, as well as being more
vocal and aggressively territorial than the male. After
laying a clutch of eggs, she leaves the male to
incubate them and to raise the chicks when they
hatch, then may find another partner with which to
70
mate.
Buttonquails live in open habitats such as grassland,
forest edge, secondary growth and savanna where
they forage for seeds, soft green leaves and insects
on the ground. Their well-camouflaged nest is also
built on the ground. Two species occur in Java, and
only one is found in Baluran.
Estimate their size
1
1. Green Junglefowl
2. White-breasted Waterhen
3. Barred Buttonquail
Ordo Turnix suscitator
Gruiformes Barret Buttonquail
Gemak Loreng
Having a wide distribution through East on side-neck, breast and wing-coverts;
Asia and Indonesia, the Barred rufous-orange belly. Female: black chin
Buttonquail occurs widely in Baluran but and throat, and some black on crown.
Flight
When flushed
is easily overlooked as it spends much of
its time amongst dense grasses.
However it is often seen walking along
the edge of the Bekol – Batangan and
Bekol-Bama roads, and other trails.
Male: smaller, face and chin whitish;
crown browner. The rarer Kurrichane
Buttonquail differs in being slightly
smaller and lacking bold barring on the
underparts.
“explosive” sound as When flushed, it jumps up, then flies low Voice: not heard in Baluran, but
wing beats rapidly; flight before plummeting to the ground a reported to include a long series of soft
is direct, shallow, and short distance away, whereupon it runs booming notes which gradually increase
short distance or waits until danger has passed. in volume then stops abruptly, and soft
Identification: Mottled brown purring by female.
upperparts; bold black and white barring
71
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Length: 15-17 cm (female c. 10 g
heavier)
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, but in pairs in
breeding season.
 Length: 30 cm
Status: Least Concern Ordo Family
National Law: -
Abundance: Common in
suitable habitat
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary or in pairs
Gruiformes
Rallidae
Crakes, Rails, Moorhen, Waterhen

Flight
T hese are small to medium-sized, secretive, ground-
dwelling birds that inhabit a wide range of wetlands
around the world. Their long robust legs dangle during
flight, which is weak due to their short, rounded wings;
consequently they prefer to run from danger than fly away.
Almost never fly, Their short tails are characteristically cocked or flicked as they
except when walk. Notoriously difficult to see as they skulk among dense
dispersing or reeds or even rice crops, but if not disturbed, can occasionally
migrating at night. be seen walking in the open. All species can swim, and some
When disturbed, may are largely aquatic (coots) having specialized lobes on the toes
fly very short for swimming and diving. Rails are omnivorous, or
distance. predominantly vegetarian. Eight species occur in Java, and two
have been recorded in Baluran.
72

73
Amaurornis phoenicurus

White-breasted Waterhen
Kareo Padi

Due to its frequent habit of foraging in the
open and broad range of habitats, this
species is one of the more familiar
members of its family over its wide range
from India through Southeast Asia and
Indonesia. In Baluran it is most often found
in swampy areas, fish ponds and paddy
fields in Gatel Block and Perengan. During
the rainy season these birds are often seen
on flooded savanna at Ketokan Kendal and
Curah Uling. At Perengan Block they come
out into the paddyfields or marshy areas
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
to forage but quickly take refuge in the
coastal forest when disturbed. Reported to
feed on a variety of animals (worms,
molluscs, insects and their larvae, spiders),
as well as grass seeds and shoots of marsh
plants (Handbook Of The Birds Of The
World).
Identification: Easily recognized by its
striking blackish-grey upperparts and
white face, foreneck and breast. Also
bright yellow legs, and pale green bill with
red base (duller in females and non-
breeding males).
Voice: Noisy, reputedly moreso in the
breeding season. Cacophany of grunts,
chuckles and squeals, often given by two
birds simultaneously, followed by a loud
monotonous "uwok-uwok", repeated for
several minutes.
 Pluvialis fulva
Family Order
Charadriiformes Pacific Golden Plover
Charadriidae
Lapwings, Plovers
Cerek Kernyut

T his is a one of many families of birds popularly known

as waders or shorebirds. Most of these families, like
this one, are cosmopolitan, and many of its members
are migratory, breeding in the Arctic Circle during the
Flight

brief summer (June-July) when there is continuous daylight Fast, most of them with
This species breeds on the tundra of
central and eastern Siberia, as well as
western Alaska, then migrates to non-
breeding grounds that spread from
northeast Africa and India through
to feed, before migrating south to spend the remainder of deep wingbeats. Pointed Southeast Asia to Australia, New Zealand
the year in the tropics or Southern Hemisphere. Migratory wings. Some of species and islands in the western Pacific. It occurs
shorebirds visiting Java mainly breed in remote eastern do glids before landing. widely across the East Asian-Australasian
Siberia or northern China. By August many of these birds Flyway (EAAF) and Central Pacific Flyways,
leave their remote nesting grounds and begin the amazing and the population using the EAAF is
journey to their non-breeding grounds as far away as southern Australia, 14,000 believed to comprise at least 100,000
kilometres, following the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. birds. These birds appear to travel slowly
The plovers are a relatively uniform group of small to medium sized waders with on a broad front over both land and water
large eyes, longish legs and a shortish, straight bill with a slightly bulbous tip. during their southward migration, and up
Their tails are short and their wings slender and pointed. Plovers are instantly to 930 birds have been recorded in
recognizable by their almost mechanical, “stop-start” manner of locomotion Banyuasin Delta, South Sumatra, during
74
coast, such as airports, golf courses and
pastures. They feed mostly on insects,
worms, and in mud, bivalve molluscs.
In Baluran, this species is occurs in small
numbers during the wet season from
November to March. They can usually be
found around the unused fish ponds or
bund walls at Gatel Block, foraging on dry,
rather than flooded, ground. At night, they
also visit the savanna at Bekol.
Identification: Medium-sized wader with
large head, short bill and long dark grey
legs. Non-breeding plumage: upperparts
and crown mottled, each feather being
dark brown fringed with yellowish-buff
spots. Buffish-white eyebrow, lores and

when foraging, consisting of a short burst of running, followed by a pause of October. Northward migration, however,

75
throat with brown eye-stripe. Underparts
similar duration, during which the bird quickly dips its head to pick up prey from appears to follow a different route, most buffy-white with grey-brown streaks on
the ground, or watches for movements a few metres ahead with head held high. birds funnelling through Japan and south- foreneck and breast (Geering et al. 2007).
Their prey lives just below the surface of the mud or ground, and mainly east Russia. Like other waders, Voice: Generally quiet, but when
comprises worms and either insect larvae or crabs and other small crustaceans. Pacific Golden Plovers inhabit disturbed give a shrill single or
Although plovers are visual hunters, some species enhance their prey capture intertidal mudflats, sandbars rapid double note "tu-ee”, or
rate by making tapping or trembling movements with one of their feet, actions and rocky reefs, but they plaintive “klee-eet” (Hails
that stimulate prey to move to the surface. also regularly forage on areas and Jarvis 1987).
Ten members of this family have been recorded on Java. Almost all are migrants with short grass near the
from the Northern Hemisphere but one is resident (Javan Plover), and another is
probably a vagrant visitor from Australia or eastern Indonesia. Java was also
once home to a rather large, endemic species of plover: the Javan Lapwing
Vanellus macropterus. This very distinctive, blackish bird formerly inhabited
marshes and river deltas on the northwest and southeast coast of the island, but
as there have been no positive sightings of it since 1940, it seems likely that it is DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
now extinct. The principal cause of its demise was probably extensive conversion
of its habitat to aquaculture and agricultural land.

Estimate their size

1
2

Length: 25 cm
3 4 Status: Least Concern
1. Pacific Golden Plover Law: -
2. Oriental Plover Abundance: Rare
3. Javan Plover Seasonality: Migrant
4. Little Ringed Plover
Sociality: Usually in small flocks
 Charadrius dubius
Little Ringed Plover
Cerek Kalung Kecil
Except for sedentary races in India and the
Philippines, this Old World species is
migratory, breeding across much of
Eurasia, from Britain to Southeast Russia
and Japan, and migrating each year to the
tropics. European populations spend their
non-breeding season in Africa, while those
of Siberia migrate to Southeast Asia,
including much of Indonesia, with small
numbers reaching northern Australia. An
estimated 25,000 birds use the EAA
Flyway, with some 2,000 individuals
“wintering” in Indonesia. The Little Ringed
Plover inhabits the muddy or sandy edges
of freshwater marshes and lakes,
paddyfields, and shingle bars on rivers,
76
and in Java is particularly fond of the
partially dry brackish-water fish-ponds of
the north coast (Holmes and Nash 1989).
It forages in the typical stop-run-peck style
of plovers, sometimes tapping the mud or
sand with one trembling foot, to scare
insects and other invertebrates to the
surface.
In Baluran up to six of these birds have
been seen in December, but the species
may be expected to occur anytime during
the wet season. It is most frequently seen
at the former mining pools and estuary in
Gatel Block.
Identification: Small plover with yellow
eyering, white collar, and bright to dull
yellow legs. Uniform brown upperparts
and white underparts. In breeding
plumage, broad black breast band
continues as narrow black line under
white collar, and black mask from ear
coverts to bill and across fore-crown
behind small white forehead patch. Non-
breeding birds have black parts replaced
by brown, and breast band rarely meets in
the centre. In flight, there is no white
wing-bar as in some other small plovers.
Voice: In flight, gives a far-carrying,
descending “pee-uu”.
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Length: 16 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Wet season migrant
Sociality: Small groups; often in
mixed-species flocks
This species was formerly treated as a race
of the migratory Kentish Plover C.
alexandrinus, but is now treated as a
separate species due to some unique
plumage characteristics and its resident
status. Originally thought to be endemic to
Java and Kangean Island, the Javan Plover
is now known to occur through much of
the Greater and Lesser Sunda Islands, from
Sumatra to Timor. Very little is known
about the ecology of this species, though
its food and foraging behaviour are
probably very similar to those of the
closely related Kentish Plover. It was
recently found breeding during June in
West Java, and a juvenile was found in
Timor Leste in July.
In Baluran, the Javan Plover is a resident in
small numbers along the coast, best seen
in Gatel and Lempuyang Blocks. It favours
mudflats on the edge of ponds or flat
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Length: 15 cm
Status: Near Threatened
Law: -
Abundance: Rather rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs or small flocks of
4-6 individuals
Charadrius javanicus
In Javan Plover
Cerek Jawa
sandy beaches close to seagrass beds, and
has never observed in paddy fields or
mangrove forest.
Identification: Male in breeding plumage
differs from similar species (Kentish Plover
and Malaysian Plover) in having rufous-
cinnamon extending from the crown
down the hindneck and then onto the
sides of the breast. Black bar on fore-
crown and lores, dark brown eye-stripe.
There is an incomplete narrow white
collar that stops at the hind-neck, and a
patch of blackish-brown on the side of the
breast, which sometimes forms a
complete collar, and the legs are greyish.
Female and non-breeding male have
77
browner cap, and black areas are replaced
by dark brown.
Voice: Repeated note "kwiik" with rising
inflection; also prolonged “crcrcrcrek”
during courtship.
 Breeding around saline lakes and
freshwater rivers in inland northern China
and Mongolia, this unusual migratory
species is neither a “shorebird” nor
“wader” in the literal sense, spending most
of its life a long way from coastal shores or
wetlands of any kind. Most the estimated
global population of 70,000 birds migrates
to northern Australia for the austral spring-
summer, arriving on the coast in mid-
78
September before the tropical monsoon
rains, then spreading inland to dry open
grasslands and sparsely-vegetated plains
Charadrius veredus where they stay through the wet season
Oriental Plover
Cerek Asia
until March or early April. The lack of any
important staging sites in Southeast Asia
for these birds suggests that they fly non-
stop between their breeding and non-
breeding grounds, although small numbers
are sometimes seen on passage in Korea,
Japan, Philippines and Indonesia. In
Australia Oriental Plovers are usually seen
Size: 23 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Irregular passage
migrant in small numbers
Sociality: Small to large flocks, but
occasionally solitary or in pairs.
in flocks on short grass, often recently
burnt, where they feed mainly on small
insects. Unusually they spend most of the
day loafing, and forage mostly at night.
This species has only once been observed
on the Bekol savanna on 26 September
2011.
Identification: A medium-sized rather
elegant plover with distinctly upright
stance, longish neck, long yellowish legs
79
and a thin, tapering bill. Dark brown
upperparts and mostly white underparts
with broad band of brown across breast.
Buffy-white eyebrow, lores and throat,
contrast with brown cap, giving a pale-
faced appearance. Photo shown is adult in
non-breeding plumage.
Voice: Never heard in Baluran, but said to
utter a short piping “klink” or “tink”, as
well as a sharp whistled “chip-chip-chip” in
flight.
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
 Family
Scolopacidae
Sandpipers and relatives
L
ike the plover family
(Charadriidae), the sandpipers and
relatives are cosmopolitan, most
species breeding in the tundra of the
Arctic Circle during the brief summer
(June-July), when there is continuous
daylight, then migrating south soon
afterwards to spend the rest of the year
in the tropics or Southern Hemisphere.
Those visiting Java and other islands of
the Greater Sundas mainly breed in
eastern Siberia or northern China. By
August many of these birds have left
80
their remote nesting grounds and begun
the remarkable journey to their non-
breeding grounds which include
southern Australia, about 14,000
kilometres away. Studies of shorebirds
using the East Asian-Australasian (EAA)
Flyway have shown that several species
fly non-stop from Australia to “staging”
sites on Taiwan or around the Yellow
Sea, traveling distances of 4,500 to 7,600
kilometres, over three to six days, and
one bird flew 11,000 kilometres from
Alaska to New Zealand in just nine days.
Over a lifespan of 20 years, some
individuals may fly over 500,000
kilometres! Within the EAA Flyway,
Indonesia is particularly important for
migratory shorebirds during their
southward passage, less so during the
non-breeding period, and least
important during the northward
passage. Most of the internationally
Ordo
Charadriiformes
important shorebird sites in Indonesia
are on Sumatra, including Banyuasin
Delta and the coast from Kualatungul to
Tanjung Jabung. Compared to the other
large family of shorebirds, the plovers,
this family is diverse in form, with
species ranging in size from the tiny
stints (15 grams) to large curlews (up to
1.3 Kg). Typically they have long legs,
shortish tails, and long, pointed wings
that are ideal for long distance
migration. Their bills are generally long
and slender, but they vary in relative size
and shape among species, depending on
habitat and diet. Unlike the plovers that
forage entirely by sight, using their large
eyes to scan for prey while pausing
briefly between bouts of running, the
smaller-eyed sandpipers and relatives
often locate prey by “feeling” them, as
they walk slowly and methodically,
periodically probing the sand or mud.
Their bills contain tactile receptors that
are capable of detecting small changes
in pressure caused by prey embedded in
a wet substrate. Curlews use their
extraordinarily long, downcurved bills to
probe deep into the burrows of crabs,
crayfish and worms, but must extract
their prey to swallow it, whereas
straighter-billed species are able to bend
the lower part of the upper mandible to
manipulate and ingest deeply-buried
prey without opening the entire bill.
Knots swallow bivalves whole, the hard
shells being crushed by the muscular gizzard, and Flight
regurgitated as pellets with other indigestible
material.
For most of the year, these birds have drab Varied. Most of sandpiper
plumage, a mixture of grey, brown, and white, and has strong, quick, light,
many species are so similar that their identification with flicking wingbeats;
often rises high if
presents a serious challenge, particularly when
disturbed. Whimbrel: fast,
viewed from a distance. Yet prior to their departure strong, wingbeats quiet
for northern breeding grounds, usually around
quick and deep. Common
April, most species begin to develop their Sandpiper has
distinctive breeding plumages, featuring bright characteristic flickering
reddish-chestnut or cinnamon and bold black beats of bowed wings, stiff
markings. The majority of species frequent coastal (Hume 2002).
mudflats, estuaries and beaches, individuals
dispersing widely to forage when tides are low,
during both day and night, but congregating into
large, often mixed-species flocks, to sleep when
tides are at the highest. Other species prefer the
edges of freshwater wetlands, and one group, the
woodcocks, even inhabits montane forests! Most
81
species are gregarious outside the breeding
season, and usually forage, roost and fly in tight,
coordinated flocks. Java is visited by no fewer than
29 migratory species, eight of which have been
found in Baluran, but it is also home to one
resident species (Rufous Woodcock Scolopax
saturata).
Estimate their size
Scolopacidae Charadriidae
1
5
2 3 4
6 7
1. Whimbrel 5. Pacific Golden Plover
2. Wood Sandpiper 6. Javan Plover
3. Common Sandpiper 7. Little Ringed Plover
4. Grey-tailed Tattler
 Numenius phaeopus
Whimbrel
Gajahan Penggala
This species is one of the most widespread
members of its family, with a discontinuous
breeding distribution around the Arctic, but
a non-breeding range that includes all of the
tropics, and reaches as far as the southern
tip of Africa, South America and New
Zealand. Southeast Asia and Australia are
temporary homes for over 100,000 birds of
the race variegatus which breeds in eastern
Siberia, and migrates south through the
Kamchatka Peninsula of far eastern Russia.
During their northward migration, on the
other hand, Whimbrels concentrate in
eastern Asia, mainly Japan and the Yellow
Sea, and it is likely that some birds fly there
non-stop from Australia. However, many
birds, mainly juveniles, remain in Indonesia
and northern Australia for the whole year,
82
foregoing the opportunity to breed. Up to
1,000 Whimbrels have been recorded in
Banyuasin Delta, South Sumatra, during
February, and up to 500 in August. Favouring
mudflats close to mangroves, these birds
hunt crabs and shrimps, often walking
sedately until prey is sighted, then
running to seize it before it retreats
down its burrows.
This species is surprisingly irregular
in Baluran National Park, with
small numbers
being seen
during the
dry
season (July) as well as the early wet season
(November). Although recorded to date only
around Lempuyang and Bama beach, it is
likely to occur on mudflats and reefs
anywhere along the park's coastline.
Identification: Large shorebird with
moderately long (less than twice the head
length), downcurved bill, longish legs, and
prominent pale eyebrow contrasting with
dark eye-stripe and blackish crown with pale
central stripe. In flight shows a whitish rump
extending in a triangle up the back. The
female is larger and has a longer bill. The
much larger Eurasian Curlew N. arquata and
Far Eastern Curlew N. madagascariensis have
much longer bills (around three times longer
than the head) and an unstriped head, and
the call is a rising “cour-lee”.
Voice: Loud piping notes, repeated rapidly:
"tee-tee-tee-tee-tee" especially in flight.
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Length: 43 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: A wet season
migrant, some may be seen
during the dry season
Sociality: Solitary foraging; small
flocks at rest, species in mixed
flocks
Tringa glareola
Wood Sandpiper
Trinil Semak
After breeding in open areas within the
boreal forest and marshes of northern
Europe through central Siberia to
Kamchatka, Wood Sandpipers migrate to
Africa, southern and Southeast Asia and
Australia. Less than 10% of the estimated
global population uses the East Asian-
Australasian Flyway, migrating through
eastern Russia and coastal China on both
southward and northward journeys. Studies
suggest that northern Borneo may be an
important staging point prior to southward
dispersal through Indonesia and Australia,
whereas there is little evidence for staging
on the northward passage. This species
prefers freshwater wetlands to the seashore,
and may be found well inland on flooded
fields, lakes and marshes up to 1,000 m
above sea level (Coates and Bishop 1997;
Hails and Jarvis 1987). Thousands of these
birds have been noted on flooded sawah
(rice fields) in April, and again, in August, at
coastal sites in southern Bali (Mason and
Jarvis 1989), suggesting that they arrive in
large flocks before spreading inland or
continuing on to other parts of
Indonesia and Australia. Foraging in
shallow water with a graceful,
high-stepping gait, they feed on
aquatic invertebrates and tiny
fish, and when disturbed, bobs
its body repeatedly, but not as
constantly as the Common
Sandpiper.
The Wood
Sandpiper is
the most
frequently observed wader species in
Baluran, as unlike most other species which
stay for a few weeks or even just a matter of
days, this species remains in the park for
much of the wet season, from December
through February. Up to 100 individuals may
be seen in the freshwater wetlands at Gatel
Block, particularly where there are both
small pools and mud. It is rarely observed in
tidal areas, but commonly visits rice paddy
fields.
Identification: A small, slim shorebird with
longish legs and a relatively short, straight
bill. Dark brownish-grey upperparts, the
feathers scaled or speckled with whitish;
prominent white eyebrow contrast with dark
cap and eye-stripe. White underparts,
washed grey on breast. In flight, white band
across uppertail coverts sharply marked off
83
from dark brown of lower back; white tail
barred brown; no obvious pale wing bar, and
underwing all white.
Voice: Shrill 2- to 4-note whistle " chiff-if-iff”
or “tiss-iss-iss” (Holmes and Nash 1989) or
“sif-sif-sif-sif” (Mason and Jarvis 1989).
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Length: 20 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: -
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary or in flocks; mixed flocks
 Actitis hypoleucos
Common
Trinil Pantai
Sandpiper
Breeding on the edges of rivers and
other water bodies right across
Eurasia, this species, like the Wood
Sandpiper, migrates to Africa,
southern Asia, and Australia. Between
25,000 and 100,000 Common Sandpipers
are believed to use the EAA Flyway, but
little is known of their migration routes,
except that it is more common in Japan on
southward than northward migration. One
bird that was colour-flagged in northwest
Australia was later seen in Singapore.
Outside the breeding season this species
can occur almost anywhere where there is
water, from coastal mudflats, rocky reefs
and tidal creeks in mangroves, to inland
paddyfields, ditches and the banks of
rivers and creeks, up to 2,000 m (Coates
and Bishop 1997) above sea-level. The
84
Common Sandpiper forages by walking or
stalking and running, then pecking at or
stabbing its prey, which includes crabs as
well as adult and larval insects. This
species is easily recognized by its
characteristic “teetering” gait, the tail
bobbing up and down almost constantly
while the body is tilted forwards and the
head also bobbed at intervals. Its flight is
also distinctive, consisting of rapid beats
on stiff, strongly bowed wings, never
dipping below horizontal, alternating with
short glides, typically close to the surface
of the water. The function of these jerky
wingbeats becomes clear when predators
appear, whereupon these birds
immediately dive under water and swim to
safer sites with the aid of both legs and
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
wings.
In Java,
the
Common Sandpiper visits mostly from
September to April, but some birds stay
year-round. It has been recorded in many
parts of Baluran NP, and is probably found
along the entire coastline of the park, from
Gatel Block in the north-west to Pandean
Beach in the south.
Identification: Small shorebird with
shortish legs, moderately long bill, and
long tail projecting well beyond wing tips
at rest. Olive-brown crown, neck, sides of
breast and upperparts, the feathers of the
wings scalloped with paler and darker
fringes; dark eyestripe contrasts with thin
white eyebrow and eyering (orbital).
Underparts mostly white, sharply
demarcated from the brown sides of
breast, forming a conspicuous white
wedge in front of the folded wing.
Voice: Shrill piping, slightly descending
"twee-wee-wee”, usually as it flies off.
Length: 20 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: -
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Mostly wet season migrant, but some
present during dry season.
Sociality: Solitary, or in very small flocks; rarely
associates with other shorebirds.
Heteroscelus brevipes
Grey-tailed Tattler
Trinil Ekor-kelabu
This species breeds on the pebbly
riverbeds and shores of lakes in the
mountains of northeast Siberia from June
to August, then migrates to Southeast
Asia, New Guinea and Australia. It is
confined to the EAA Flyway, and over 90%
of the estimated global population of
50,000 birds spends the non-breeding
season in Australia. Banding and flagging
studies show that Japan and Taiwan are
important stopover locations for this
species during both northward and
southward migration, and it is likely that
many birds undertake non-stop flights
between these offshore islands and
Australia, possibly via the Philippines. It is
a rare passage migrant through Southeast
85
Asia, including Java, mainly during its
southward passage. The Grey-tailed Tattler However, it is likely to occur in small numbers
favours rocky shores and reefs and right around the coast.
intertidal mudflats, often adjacent to
Identification: A medium-sized shorebird
mangroves or seagrass beds. At high tide it with shortish yellow legs and straight bill of
rests while perched on the branches of
medium-length (as long as the head).
mangroves or on artificial structures such Uniformly grey upperparts and white
as breakwaters or piers, or forms flocks on
underparts except for grey wash on breast.
the beach, often intermingling with other Dark grey eye-stripe contrasts with white
shorebirds. When foraging it walks slowly
eyebrow above and white cheeks below. On
or runs, periodically pausing to peck or arrival and prior to departure, many birds
probe the substrate for prey, such as crabs,
show traces of breeding plumage, in which
shrimps, polychaete worms and molluscs, much of the underparts are barred blackish-
often while teetering.
grey.
In Baluran, this species has to date been Voice: Upward-inflected whistle of two notes
recorded only on the north side of
“tu-weep” or short, soft trill.
Lempuyang beach in October 2009.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Length: 25 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Migrant
Sociality: Solitary or in small flocks
 Phalaropus lobatus
Red-necked Phalarope
Kakirumbai Kecil
Phalaropes are unusual among
shorebirds in being specialized for life at
sea. Their dense duck-like downy
plumage allows them to stay on the
water without becoming waterlogged,
and their lobed toes, also webbed at the
base, make them efficient swimmers,
able to twist and turn quickly. During the
non-breeding season, these birds
congregate at sea, where they feed on
tiny zooplanktonic animals by scooping
the surface of the water with slightly
opened mandibles, the prey being swept
86
towards the mouth in water droplets by
capillary action. Their swimming style is
jerky with the head constantly bobbing,
and they often spin around rapidly in
the one spot, creating a vortex which
probably brings deeper prey closer to
the surface. In striking contrast,
however, during the breeding season
these birds feed mostly on insects and
spiders while walking around or wading
in the shallows of freshwater marshes in
the Arctic tundra or North American
prairies. Phalaropes are polyandrous,
the larger and brighter-plumaged
females mating with several males who
take care of the eggs and young.
The breeding range of the Red-necked
Phalarope is circum-polar, extending
from Eurasia to northern Canada, but
there are three distinct non-breeding
areas. Within the EAA Flyway, the main
non-breeding area is thought to be the
Celebes Sea, between North Borneo,
South Philippines and Papua. Its
distribution during the non-breeding
period is influenced by the weather,
such as cyclonic conditions, and the
availability of planktonic food.
Southward migration occurs overland
and offshore across eastern Asia,
whereas northward migration is
probably east of Borneo, with Japan
being an important staging site during
May. This species is a common visitor to
Indonesian seas from September to
April (Coates and Bishop 1997), but it is
87
also sometimes seen on ponds in coastal
areas and occasionally well inland. In
Baluran, one was recorded resting on
the beach at Gatel in December 2009.
Identification: Very pale, small
shorebird with small head, slender neck
and shortish needle-like bill, usually
seen swimming on the sea. Non-
breeding plumage: white head, neck and
underparts, with blackish stripe beind
eye curving around ear-coverts. Pale
brownish-grey nape, hind-neck, sides of
Length: 18 cm
breast and upperparts, the feathers of DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Status: Least Concern
the mantle and wings broadly fringed Law: -
white. Birds in breeding plumage show Abundance: Very rare
slate-grey head and upperparts, with Seasonality: Palearctic migrant, visiting mainly
during wet season.
chestnut-fringed feathers, and a Sociality: Solitary on land, but usually in flocks at sea
chestnut band from behind the eye to
the foreneck. The photograph(s) shows
a bird moulting from breeding to non-
breeding plumage.
Voice: Usual flight call is a short, single
note given as “chek”, “twick” or “clip”.
 Family Ordo
Charadriiformes
Recurvirostridae
Stilts and Avocets

W ith only seven species, this is a small family of Flight

shorebirds, yet they are found on all
continents of the world. The stilts are instantly
recognizable due to their extraordinarily long
legs, while the slightly shorter-legged avocets have
Direct and buoyant, on
stiff, shallow wingbeats,
uniquely upturned bills. All have slim, elegant bodies, the feet extending well
long necks, short tails and longish wings. Stilts inhabit a beyond the tail. Pointed
wide variety of wetlands, from intertidal mudflats and wings flicked in quite
brackish lagoons to freshwater swamps, lakes, flooded shallow beats; glides in
paddy fields and braided riverbeds well inland. They feed wind (Hume 2002)
primarily on aquatic insects, molluscs, crustaceans and
worms, mostly obtained by pecking at the surface of the
water or mud, whilst gracefully wading in shallow water up to their “knees”, or
occasionally, by plunging the head completely under water. At night, however, Himantopus himantopus
when visibility is greatly reduced, both stilts and avocets, use a tactile technique
known as 'scything' in which the slightly opened bill is swept from side to side at a Black-winged Stilt
88

89
low angle through the water, or soft mud, to filter out small invertebrates. Stilts are Gagangbayam Belang
gregarious and often breed colonially. Some populations are sedentary, while
others are nomadic or even migratory. Compared to other shorebirds, they are
quite noisy. Only one species of stilt occurs in Java, although its taxonomy is still
Over its nearly cosmopolitan range this and paddyfields in Java during the austral
debated.
species is so variable in appearance that winter, although breeding has also been
Estimate their size three of the five recognized races have recorded on the island. There are two
4 been considered as separate species by one known sightings of the species from
1 2
or more authorities in the past. Two races Baluran, both concerning two birds that
occur in Indonesia, the most widespread were recorded in June 2008, first in Gatel
being the uninformatively named 'White- block and then on Bama beach. At Gatel
headed Stilt' (H. h. leucocephalus) that is the birds were foraging in the shallow
3
1. Whimbrel resident in Australia and New Zealand but water of a pond, whereas at Bama they
2. Black-winged Stilt disperses north in the austral winter were resting on mudflats.
3. Red-necked Phalarope
4. Beach Stone-curlew through the Sundas as far as Sumatra and Identification: Unmistakable wader with
Philippines, and occasionally even further very long pink legs and long, fine, straight
north (Phillipps and Phillipps 2007). The bill. Black hind-neck and upperparts
nominate race (H. h. himantopus) is an contrast with mostly white head and
Length: 37 cm increasingly regular migrant to Borneo from underparts.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Status: Least Concern
mainland Asia during the northern winter Voice: Nasal yelping, "kik kik kik …." or “yap
Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very rare (i.e. southern summer). The former race is yap yap ….”, rather like puppy.
Seasonality: Uncertain status, but probably an uncommon visitor to coastal wetlands
irregularly visits in small numbers during dry season
Sociality: Pairs or small flocks
 Family
Charadriiformes
Burhinidae
Stone-curlews (Thick-knees)
T his small family has a largely Old World distribution, with Flight
only two of the nine species found in the American
tropics. With their large eyes, long legs and run-stop gait,
stone-curlews are reminiscent of plovers (Charadriidae)
to which they are, indeed, most closely related. They are
relatively large waders, mostly with stout to massive bills, and
a slightly swollen tibio-tarsal joint, which is the origin of their
alternative name “thick-knees”, though anatomically-speaking
the joint is actually an ankle rather than a knee. Most species
live in dry, open habitats, including savannas, grasslands and
deserts, though some prefer the edges of rivers and lakes, and
one (see below) is a beach specialist. Stone-curlews are
essentially nocturnal or crepuscular, i.e. mainly active during
dusk and dawn, and rest during the day by either standing or
sitting in the shade of low vegetation, relying on their cryptic
coloration to escape detection. Their food comprises insects and other invertebrates,
90
though larger species often take reptiles and even small mammals. Silent by day, these birds
become very vocal at dusk and the loud, wailing cries of some species have a mournful,
eerie quality. Stone-curlews are generally sociable, most species forming flocks outside the
breeding season. Only one member of this family occurs in Java.
Ordo
Estimate their size
1
2
3
Direct, usually low, with
regular, shallow
wingbeats. They often
Beach Stone-curlew
take off from the ground
after a short run, and
likewise, run a short
distance after landing
before settling into a
walk.
Restricted to coastlines with sandy or
gravelly beaches, tidal mudflats, estuaries or
rocky reefs, as well as offshore sand bars and
atolls, this species ranges from the Thai-
Malay Peninsula to Australia and islands of
the Southwest Pacific. Primarily crespuscular
and nocturnal, Beach Stone-curlews roost
during the day beneath mangroves or trees
on sand dunes, and only emerge when the
tide recedes. They feed almost exclusively on
crabs, which are dismembered by
hammering with the massive bill, before
being swallowed. Although they do not wade
in water, their foraging technique recalls
large herons, as they commonly stalk their
prey, after spotting it, then suddenly run
forward and lunge at it before it disappears
down its burrow. When disturbed, they often
bob their heads (MacKinnon and Phillipps
Length: 55 cm
Status: Near Threatened
Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs or small groups
1. Black-winged Stilt
2. Beach Stone-curlew
3. Green Junglefowl
Esacus neglectus
Wiliwili Besar
1993).
Up to 12 Beach Stone-curlews have been
seen on the beach at Bilik-Sijile, and one at
Kajang beach, in Baluran. Bilik-Sijile Block
is near the former settlement of the
Labuhan Merak, often visited by people
fishing and herding cattle.
91
Identification: Unmistakable large
shorebird with large head and heavy bill.
Grey-brown upperparts and crown. Sides
of head are boldly striped black and white,
and blackish shoulder bar is separated
from pale grey of the rest of the wing by a
narrow white stripe. White underparts
except for grey wash across chest. In flight,
white inner primaries contrast with black
outer primaries, as well as grey
secondaries and brown trailing edge.
Yellow eyes, legs and base to black bill.
Voice: Weak piping “tee-tleet”, given in
alarm (Coates and Bishop 1997); and at
night, mournful wailing "weer-loo”,
repeated and becoming faster and higher
in pitch.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
 Chlidonias hybridus
Family Ordo
Charadriiformes Whiskered Tern
Sternidae
Terns
Daralaut Kumis

Unusual among terns because of its slowly back and forth, usually 2-6 metres
preference for freshwater habitats, the above the water, often hovering before it

I n the past often combined with the family Laridae,

which includes the 51 species of gulls, the Sternidae is
now usually treated as a separate family due to the
many morphological and ecological differences
between these two groups. The terns are a truly
Flight

Typically buoyant and

graceful, with fairly
Whiskered (or Marsh) Tern is a breeding
resident in parts of Africa, India, Southeast
China and Australia, and a breeding migrant
in temperate Europe, Russia and inland East
China. There are no breeding colonies in
drops or swoops while quickly dipping its bill
below the surface to pick up small prey. In
Baluran the Whiskered Tern has been
recorded in small numbers (up to 12) in
Gatel Block from March to May, the latter
Indonesia, but it is a common non-breeding month being rather late for Asian-breeding
cosmopolitan, breeding on all continents, including constant wing beats; visitor to the Greater Sundas from mainland populations to be returning to the mainland.
Antarctica. Whereas the gulls are common in the skillful and agile fliers, Asia during the boreal “winter” (September In contrast, this species is regularly recorded
temperate regions, especially that of the Northern able to hover or skim to May), and to Wallacea from Australia around Bali during September-October (Ash
Hemisphere, and rare in the tropics, most of the terns over water when during the austral “winter” (May to 1984).
either migrate to the tropics or Southern Hemisphere and fishing, or circle and September or as late as December). Identification: Small tern with short bill,
many breed in the tropics. The vast majority of the 44 wheel in pursuit of However, the species is also regularly slightly forked tail and reddish legs. Grey
tern species breed on rocky and sandy coasts on the aerial insects. reported from Borneo and Java during the upperparts, including rump and tail, and
mainland and inshore archipelagos, while others breed austral winter (Phillipps and Phillipps 2009; white head and underparts, except for black
MacKinnon and Phillipps 1993; Holmes and stripe from eye to nape and black streaks on
on only on oceanic islands, and several breed on inland rivers or marshes. Outside
Nash 1989), presumably representing birds hind-crown; black bill and dark reddish legs.
their breeding seasons most inland breeders move to the coast, while some coastal from Australia. This species frequents Breeding plumage: entirely black crown and
breeders become entirely pelagic, spending months at sea.
92

93
freshwater lakes, marshes, fishponds and dark grey underparts contrasting with white
Terns are much more slender and streamlined than gulls, with characteristically wet paddyfields up to 20 kms inland cheeks and upper throat. In appearance and
long, narrow, pointed wings, and long, forked tails, often with elongated tail (MacKinnon and Phillipps 1993), as well as behavior this species most closely resembles
streamers. They feed mainly on schooling fish, which are often caught by plunge- coastal brackish lagoons, intertidal mudflats the White-winged Black Tern C. leucopterus,
diving, in which the bird first hovers over the prey, then dives headlong into the and estuaries, though during migration, a migrant through Indonesia during the wet
water, usually submerging completely, before rising up into the air with its catch. stays close to the coast (Wells 1999). season.
When fish or other prey, such as crustaceans and aquatic insects, are close to the Unusually, it feeds primarily on insects, both Voice: Hoarse, rasping notes, variously
aquatic and terrestrial, as well as tadpoles written as “kitt”(MacKinnon and Phillipps
water's surface, they may forage by repeatedly swooping down and dipping the bill and frogs. It forages by repeatedly flying
beneath the surface. Insects emerging from freshwater marshes are pursued on 1993), “seerk”(Wells 1997), “cherrrk” or
“chek” (Coates and Bishop 1997).
the wing by some species. Terns are generally gregarious, breeding in dense
colonies, and often congregating at sea to feed on fish shoals. When not foraging,
they usually rest on reefs, sand-bars and beaches, frequently in the company of
other tern and shorebird species. No fewer than 15 species of terns have been
recorded in Java, and eight of these are known to visit Baluran. DISTRIBUTION

Estimate their size 6 Length: 25 cm

Status: Least Concern
4 5
National Law: 1,2
1 2 3
Abundance: Rather rare
Seasonality: Uncertain
HABITAT USE
status, possibly a regular
passage migrant towards
1. Black-naped Tern 4. Swift Tern the end of the wet
2. Little Tern 5. Gull-billed Tern season (boreal “winter”).
3. Lesser Crested Tern 6. Beach Stone-curlew Sociality: Usually in pairs
or small flocks

All but one of the six races of this almost
cosmopolitan tern are migratory, although
of these have resident populations in
parts of their range. At least two races
94
visit Indonesia, most belonging to the race
affinis (or addenda) which breeds in East
China and migrates to Southeast Asia from
September to April. They appear to be
more regular and abundant on Borneo
and Sumatra than on Java. The Gull-billed
Tern is a rather unusual in that it is more
insectivorous than most terns, and
frequently forages over mud or even dry
grassland. It frequents both coastal
habitats, such as tidal estuaries and sand
bars, and inland freshwater wetlands, as
well as fish ponds and wet rice
paddyfields. It feeds on a wide variety of
prey from insects, worms and crabs, to
small fish, frogs and reptiles, which is
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Gelochelidon nilotica
Gull-billed Tern
Daralaut Tiram
obtained by hawking and skimming or
swooping over land or water; it rarely
plunge-dives like other terns. This species
is a rare visitor to Baluran NP, where one
was seen on Lempuyang Beach in October
2010. In Alas Purwo NP two birds were
seen in September 1995, suggesting that
the species passes through East Java to
non-breeding areas elsewhere.
Identification: Medium-sized, pale-looking
tern with stout black bill, broad wings and
only slightly forked tail. Non-breeding:
pale grey upperparts with dark grey tips to
primaries, and white head and
underparts, with blackish patch behind
eye. Breeding birds have full black cap.
Voice: Usually silent, but said to be nasal-
sounding double note, variously given as
“kek-kek” or “ka-huk” or “kwuk-wik”.
Length: 39 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Uncertain, but possibly regular
passage migrant during wet season
Sociality: Solitary or in pairs; often seen in
flocks with other species of terns
Sterna sumatrana
Black-naped Tern
Daralaut Tengkuk-hitam
This species breeds in small colonies on
tiny offshore islands and rocks in tropical
seas, from the Indian Ocean to the South
China Sea to the Southwest Pacific,
including northeast Australia. In Indonesia
it is a common resident, known to breed,
at least historically, at over 50 sites,
including islands off the north and east
coasts of Sumatra, and west and south
coasts of Java, as well as Karimunjawa
Islands north of Semarang. Nests are
active from April to July or August
(Phillipps and Phillipps 2009; Myers 2009;
van Marle and Voous 1988; Coates and
Bishop 1997), after which some birds,
especially young ones, probably disperse
along nearby coastlines. Black-naped Terns
feed mainly on small fish, obtained by
shallow plunge-diving or swooping down
to the water's surface. They fish mainly in
deep inshore waters, often over reef flats
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Length: 31 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: 1,2
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Wet season visitor
Sociality: Solitary or in small flocks
and sand spits, mostly within 2 kilometres
of the colony.
This is the most commonly encountered
tern in waters surrounding Baluran during
the wet season from September to March.
It is regularly seen flying offshore along
the coast, or perched on rocks exposed at
low tide. At Alas Purwo NP, 40 birds with
juveniles were counted in late July 1997,
though the nearest known breeding
colony is on Nusa Barung Island, some 100
km to the west.
Identification: Smallish, white-looking
tern with longish, fine black bill and long,
deeply forked tail. Very pale grey
upperparts and white underparts. Head
95
and neck white except for black eye-stripe
from just in front of eye, widening to nape.
Voice: Sharp, high pitched phrases, usually
rendered as "tsii-chee-chi-chip”.

Sterna albifrons
Little Tern
Daralaut Kecil
This Old World species is found mainly
along coasts from Europe and West Africa
in the west to Southeast Russia in the
northeast and New Zealand in the
southeast. Races breeding in the North
Temperate region migrate to southern
Africa, India or Southeast Asia for the non-
breeding period. Indonesia has small
resident populations, which breed during
the dry season from May to September
96
(Myers 2009; Coates and Bishop 1997), but
these are augmented by migrants from
mainland East Asia during the wet season.
The Little Tern inhabits sandy and shingle
beaches, coral islands, estuaries, tidal
creeks, brackish lagoons and inshore seas,
as well as inland rivers in some parts of its
range. These diminutive birds feed mainly
on small fish and crustaceans, usually
detected while flying back and forth 2-3
meters above the water, with its bill
characteristically pointed vertically
downwards. When prey is spotted they
may hover for long periods, before plunge-
diving into shallow water, then taking off
immediately afterwards (Handbook of the
Birds of the World; MacKinnon and
Phillipps 1993).
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
This is a common visitor to shores of
Baluran during the wet season. It is
frequently observed on the sandy beach at
Lempuyang, where up to 75 individuals
gather, often with other species of terns.
Identification: Small tern with longish bill
and shortish, slightly forked tail. Grey
upperparts, except for white rump and tail,
and white underparts. Breeding plumage
(residents only): black crown and eye-
stripe surrounding white of forehead
which extends over eye; yellow legs and
bill, the latter tipped black. Non-breeding
plumage (photo; includes migrants): crown
mostly white except for black-streaked
hind-crown; black line from eye to nape,
but lores white. Leading edge of wing to
tips of the primaries is dark grey and
trailing edge white. Black bill and legs.
Voice: Rather weak, rasping short, high-
pitched note, repeated: “kreek” or
“kip…kip” (Myers 2009).
Length: 24 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: 1,2
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Wet season visitor
Sociality: Solitary or in flocks of up to 100 birds,
though usually breeding in smaller numbers.
This familiar Old World tern is found in
coastal seas from the Red Sea to southern
Africa in the west to Southeast Asia,
Australia and islands of the south Central
Pacific, in the east. It breeds in colonies
varying in size from ten to 10,000 or more
pairs on low-lying offshore coral, sandy or
rocky islets as well as coastal sand spits
and lagoons. In Indonesia this is one of the
commonest terns in inshore waters, and is
known to have bred on Gundul Island of
the Karimunjawa Group, about 130
kilometers north of Semarang, Central
Java, as well as on Lari Lariang off South
Kalimantan, but not around the south
coast of Java. Great Crested Terns feed
mostly on fish up to 15 centimeters in
length, but also opportunistically take
squid, crabs and even turtle hatchlings.
They forage in shallow waters of estuaries,
reefs and lagoons, as well as along
beaches and often well out to sea, though
usually within 3 kilometers of breeding
colonies. They hunt by flying, with rapidly
with deep, slow wing beats, about 3-6 m
above the water, and plunge-diving or
swooping to pluck prey from just below
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Sterna bergii
Swift Tern
Daralaut Jambul
the surface.
The most abundant tern in Baluran, this
species is mostly encountered during the
wet season, from September to April,
when hundreds may be seen resting on
sand bars or beaches, rocky reefs or
mudflats. In Alas Purwo NP, numbers
peak from September to December, with
a maximum high tide roost count of
3,600 in October (1998). This species is
also often seen loafing on fishing stakes
or floating logs out to sea.
Identification: Large tern with crest and
chrome- or greenish-yellow bill. Grey
mantle, wings and tail, and white neck
and underparts. Breeding plumage:
97
white forehead and lores; rest of crown
and crest, black. Non-breeding: crown
white with some blackish spotting, but
black hind-crown retained. Young birds
similar to non-breeding except darker
grey upperparts, sometimes mottled
brown, and duller bill.
Voice: Guttural “kirrik” or “kurr-agh”
(Wells 1999).
Length: 45 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Mostly wet season visitor
Sociality: Solitary or small flocks when
foraging, larger flocks when loafing or
roosting
 Sterna bengalensis
Lesser Crested Tern
Daralaut Benggala

Though similar in distribution to the Swift
Tern, this species tends to forage further
out to sea, especially off Africa and India.
It breeds on islands off northern Australia,
but is not known to breed in Indonesian
waters, and is generally less common here
than the Swift Tern. Though present in all
months in eastern Indonesia, the Lesser
Crested Tern is mostly recorded during the
austral summer on Borneo (Myers 2009),
Java and Bali (MacKinnon and Phillipps
98
Ashmore Reef off northwest Australia.
Breeding in large, dense colonies of up to
20,000 pairs on offshore islands, sand
banks and coral cays, it forages in coastal
and offshore waters, often far out to sea.
It feeds almost exclusively on fish, usually
caught after flying back and forth about 5
metres above the water, then hovering
and plunge-diving, or swooping down to
pluck prey from near the surface.
In Baluran, it has been observed only at
upperparts and white head and
underparts. In breeding plumage, black of
crown extends from crest almost to base
of bill, while in non-breeding plumage,
fore-crown is white, with black extending
from eye to crest. Swift Tern is similar, but
larger, with a proportionally shorter,
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
thicker, dull yellow bill, and in breeding
plumage, a completely white forehead. Its
flight also tends to be more graceful and
buoyant than that of the Swift (Coates and
Bishop 1997).
Voice: Harsh notes, “kereek”.
Length: 40 cm
Status: Least Concern
Law: 1,2

1993). These birds may be migrants from
East India or Sri Lanka. However, on
Sumatra records are mainly from June to
August (van Marle and Voous 1988),
suggesting a different source, such as
99
Abundance: Rare
Lempuyang beach in October 2009, less Seasonality: Uncertain, but probably mainly a wet
than 10 individuals and there are no season visitor
records for Alas Purwo NP. Sociality: Solitary or small flocks, often with other
Identification: Medium-sized tern with tern species
crest and bright orange bill. Grey
 Family Ordo Treron griseicauda

Columbidae
Pigeons, Doves
Columbiformes Grey-cheeked Green Pigeon In
Punai Penganten

T his large cosmopolitan family includes one of the

most familiar and spectacularly successful
domesticated bird species in the world - the Feral
(Domestic) Pigeon, whose ancestor is the European Rock
Dove. Although considered a pest in some cities, this
Flight

Fast, straight, quite

noisy especially when
Green Pigeons are a group of small to
medium-sized, short-tailed, arboreal species
that are found mainly in the Asian tropics,
and characterized by whitish or yellow
edging to the wing-coverts and inner flight
feathers. Although females of all species are
humble bird has been exploited by humans for millennia. take off. very similar to each other, being
Various doves are extremely popular in Java as cage birds. predominantly drab green, males have
There are 90 species in Indonesia, 25 in Java and Bali and 11 distinctive patches of maroon, pink or
are found in Baluran. Pigeons and doves are characterized by a plump body with a orange in their plumage. Like the Fruit-doves
relatively small head and short legs. The bill is also relatively short, narrow and slightly (Ptilinopus sp) and Imperial Pigeons (Ducula
bent down at the tip, with a soft naked cere at the base. Although some seed-eating sp), the Green pigeons have an exclusively
fruit diet, but unlike these other groups have
species have adapted to life in cities, the majority of Asian species are forest dwellers, a muscular gizzard, containing grit, that
where they eat fruits and play a vital role in dispersing the seeds of forest trees. While enables them to grind and digest both the
seed-eaters have gizzards in the stomachs to grind the feeds and long intestines, seeds and pulp of figs, on which they mainly
whereas fruit-eating species have short intestines and elastic oesophagus to allow feed (Lambert 1988 in Wells 1999). Thus
100
occurring only in Java, Bali and Sulawesi. In
Baluran it occurs in forest, and is usually
seen in the canopy of giant fig trees, such as
the Krasak tree (Ficus superba), when they
are fruiting. There they congregate in large
flocks, often with other fruit-eating species.
Sometimes seen in the open or light canopy
forest. Like the other Green Pigeons, they
are often difficult to detect in the canopy
due to their body coloration matching that
of leaves.
Identification: The male is fairly easy to
identify with its dark purplish-maroon
mantle and lesser wing-coverts, and
chestnut vent. Female: generally dull green,
including the mantle and wing-coverts, and
vent is barred green. Both sexes have grey

101
passage of large fruits. they are seed predators rather than seed head, bluish bare skin around eye and
Generally social birds, forming large flocks in some species. Seed-eating doves tend to dispersers. yellowish bill with a green base.
be sedentary, whereas fruit-eating pigeons may be locally or regionally nomadic. Of the four species of Green Pigeons found Voice: Unique and strange, like a machine
in Baluran, the Grey-cheeked Green Pigeon roar with increasing tempo “haaaw-haw”.
Almost all pigeons and dove need to drink at least once a day, and do so by sucking
has the most restricted global range,
water rather than usual scrooping technique. Courtship displays include bowing and
tail-fanning as well as spectacular display flights in some species. Nests are typically
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Length: 25 cm
flimsy platforms of sticks, sometimes just a few, on which they lay one or two whitish Status: Least Concern
eggs. The male incubates the eggs during the middle of the day, the females for the rest National Law: -
of the time, so that eggs are rarely left exposed. Young pigeons stay in the nest for 7- 30 Abundance: Rather Rare
days, depending on species, and for the first few days are fed 'pigeon-milk' by Seasonality: Resident
Left: Adult Female;
regurgitation, a nutritious secretion produced in the crop of both parents. Right: Adult Male Sociality: Usually in flocks.

Estimate Their Size

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1. Grey-cheeked Green Pigeon 4. Green Imperial Pigeon 8. Zebra Dove

2. Pink-necked Green Pigeon 5. Ruddy Cuckoo Dove 9. Common Emerald Dove
3. Orange-breasted Green 6. Collared Island Dove
Pigeon 7. Spotted Dove
 Treron vernans Treron bicincta

Pink-necked Green Pigeon Orange-breasted Green Pigeon

Punai Gading Punai Siam

Although this species occurs from India to

Probably the most familiar of the Green Peninsular Malaysia, within Indonesia it is curiously
Pigeons through Indo-China and much of restricted to Java and Bali. The most common of the
Indonesia due to its tolerance of open Green Pigeons in Baluran, like the Pink-necked, they
country, this species is less common than
are fond of the fruits of banyans and other figs.
the next species in Baluran National
Park. It visits a wide range of habitats, Identification: Male is similar to Pink-necked Green
including coastal vine forest, Pigeon but head is mostly green with grey nape,
102

103
mangroves, savanna and monsoon and the pinkish-mauve is restricted to the upper
forest, but is most often seen in fruiting breast. Female: nearly identical female Pink-necked
trees, especially Banyan (Ficus spp). Usually in flocks Green Pigeon but grey of nape extends to hind-
(15-20 individuals), which wander constantly, hence there is no reliable neck, and tail black with broad grey terminal band
place to find them. Seasonal movements are presumably related to the and central feathers.
fruiting phenology of trees of figs, as well as second-growth plants such as Voice: Similar to Pink-necked Green Pigeon, a
Dempul (Glochidion sp), Karahan (Macaranga sp) and Ilang-ilangan (Breynia giggle-like "kreww-kreww-kreww".
sp). Not easy to approach this bird.
Identification: Male similar to that of Grey-cheeked Green Pigeon, but back
is green (instead of maroon), neck and upper breast is pinkish-mauve, and
lower breast has orange patch. Female: like female Grey-cheeked, basically
green, but differs in having grey on crown and nape only, yellowish vent, DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
and all pale green bill. Grey tail has black sub-terminal band.
Voice: Like a bubbling laughter, hoarse “oooo-oooo cheweeoo- cheweeoo-
cheweeoo” followed by “krrrak, krrrak”.

Length: 27 cm
Status: Least Concern DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Length: 29 cm
National Law: - Status: Least Concern
Abundance: Rather Rare National Law: -
Seasonality: Resident, but wanders locally, if not Abundance: Common
regionally, when not breeding Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs or in flocks Sociality: Pairs or in flocks

Ducula aenea
Green Imperial Pigeon
Pergam Hijau
Of the four species of Imperial Pigeons
found on the mainland of Java, this
species is the commonest in the
lowlands. Like many members of
its family, it has a wide
geographic range from India
through Southeast Asia and
Indonesia. In Baluran, it is widely
distributed, but is commonest in monsoon
104
forest. It is easiest to observe in the
afternoon, when pairs and small groups rest
on exposed branches of tall deciduous or
even standoff trees before flying to their
evening feeding or roosting areas. During
the morning and middle of the day, it is also
frequently seen in coastal or mangrove
forest on the east side of the park. Like all
Imperial Pigeons this species is an obligate fruit-eater,
and is presumably an important agent of seed dispersal for
forest trees.
Identification: Large size with the dominance of green on the mantle to
the upper tail and rosy grey from head to its lower body. The upper body is
sometimes disguised by a shiny rainbow bronze color. There is also red-
brown color on the under tail cover.
Voice: a loud "Ooom", or typically "kruk-kroorr”.
Length: 45 cm DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, pairs, or small flocks.
Macropygia emiliana
Ruddy Cuckoo Dove In
Uncal Buau
Of the three Cuckoo Doves on Java, this
species has the most restricted global
range, elsewhere being found only in
northern Borneo, and islands off
Sumatra, Bali and the western Lesser
Sundas (Nusa Tenggara Barat) of
Indonesia. In Baluran it is an uncommon
or inconspicuous bird of monsoon
forest, forest edges and savannas, as
well as cultivated land. It is sometimes
encountered along the Batangan-Bekol
road less than other pigeons. During the
rainy season it tends to remain hidden
inside the dense foliage of tree
canopies, whilst during the dry season
its dark reddish brown body coloration
helps to disguise it among the branches
of deciduous trees, which have lost their
leaves. Cuckoo-doves are mainly fruit-
Length: 30 cm DISTRIBUTION
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, Pairs
eaters, and often use their long tails to
help balance their bodies while reaching
for berries in the outer foliage of the
lower canopy. They often fly quite low
through the forest mid-storey,
somewhat floppily and slowly, and rarely
as high above the canopy as Imperial
Pigeons or Green Pigeons. They also
come to the ground occasionally to
collect seeds or drink.
Identification: Cuckoo-doves are
slender, medium-sized, brown pigeons
with long tails. Male: dark reddish-
brown with purplish-pink and bronze-
green gloss on the neck and breast.
105
Female lacks iridescent pink, but has
blackish barring on hind-neck, mantle
and breast.
Voice: Never heard in Baluran.
HABITAT USE
 Streptopelia bitorquata
Island Collared Dove
Dederuk Jawa
Found only in Indonesia from Java
eastwards, as well as the Philippines, this
is one of the most ubiquitous and
abundant birds in Baluran beside Yellow-
vented Bulbul. It can easily be seen at any
time of day in everywhere except primary
forest on the mountain. Although it
occupies all habitat types, it is commonest
in sparsely wooded open areas, such as
savanna where it is accustomed to the
presence of humans and can be
approached quite closely. Its diet consists
of seeds, which it finds by walking
methodically over the ground, including
roads.
Length: 30 cm
106
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Flocks or in mixed species flocks
Identification: Most of head, neck and
underparts purplish pink but with a grey
forehead, red nape and a half-collar
around hind neck consisting of a white
upper bar and black lower bar. Distinctive
tail has brown central feathers, pale grey
outer feathers with dark grey bases, and
whitish outermost edges; in flight, not
graduated as in Spotted Dove.
Voice: Deep guttural purring "kru-kruuu",
heard almost throughout the day, less
accented than the Spotted Dove.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Streptopelia chinensis
Spotted Dove
Tekukur Biasa
The English name for this familiar
species is somewhat misleading as its
spots are confined to the hind-neck,
making its alternative name - Spotted-
necked Dove - more precise. Widely
distributed from India through Southeast
Asia and Indonesia, this species has
adapted very successfully to human-
dominated landscapes, such as cities
and farms. In Baluran it has a wide
distribution, but prefers open
habitats such as savannas and
monsoon forest as well as road
edges and around the buildings at
Bekol or front office. Like the Island
107
Collared Dove, this species eats seeds
which it obtains whilst foraging on the
ground, often in mixed groups with the
latter species, though is not as abundant.
Identification: Dull drab brown upperparts
with indistinct dark streaks, pale pinkish-
brown underparts, grey crown and face, and a
distinctive half collar of black with fine white
spots. In flight, its long graduated (wedge-
shaped) tail shows broad white tips, and
pale grey bar in wing contrasts with blackish
flight feathers. See Island Collared Dove.
Voice: Soothing accented "te-kuk-kurr". The
Javanese and Bahasa Indonesian names for
this bird - Derkuku or Tekukur – are an
imitation of this call.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Length: 30 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Flocks or in mixed flocks
 Geopelia striata Chalcophaps indica

Zebra Dove Common Emerald Dove

Perkutut Jawa Delimukan Zamrud

This tiny, long-tailed dove is better known to most people as a Widely distributed from India through it rests quietly on branches in the forest
cage bird. Its lilting call makes it a favorite pet in Javanese South-east Asia and Indonesia to Australia mid-storey, from where it gives its
culture, and as a consequence of excessive trapping it has and Melanesia, this species has suffered mournful call. However it is perhaps most
disappeared from many parts of Java of Bali. Ironically, the regional declines in Java. In Baluran, it is often seen flying hurriedly through the
Zebra Doves of Baluran are well known amongst hobbyists for an uncommon bird of monsoon forest, mid-stage as if on an urgent mission.
their high quality voice, and this species is the most heavily coastal forest and plantations, from the Identification: Unmistakable plump, short-
poached bird in the park besides Yellow-vented Bulbul. Whilst coast to top of Mount Baluran. In the tailed, medium-sized pigeon with
the trend of keeping Zebra Doves as pets has declined sharply early morning or late afternoon, especially iridescent emerald or bronze green wings.
in recent years, many traps are still found in the park, during the dry season it visits waterholes, Neck and underparts pinkish - or reddish-
mounted by poachers. The species occurs naturally in of which there are many along the brown, with white forehead and eyebrow.
Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra and Java, but has been Batangan-Bekol road, to drink. However, it Males have a grey crown and white
introduced to many other parts of Indonesia. Like the Spotted is a shy bird, so one must sit quietly and shoulder bar, while females have a brown
Dove and Island Collared Dove, it prefers savannas and lightly wait beside waterholes for a good view so crown. In flight two grey bars on blackish
as not to frighten it with movement. It lower back are conspicuous.
108

109
wooded monsoon forests, where it forages on the ground for
grass and weed seeds, and sometimes congregates with other forages on the ground like the other above Voice: Soft mournful drawn-out "huup tek-
doves. dove species, but its diet includes fallen tek huup”
Identification: Very small slender bird with long, tapering fruits as well as seeds. When not foraging
tail. Upperparts earth-brown, with bluish-grey forehead, DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
face and throat; pinkish breast and white belly. Its name Length: 25 cm
Status: Least Concern
derives from the fine zebra-like black bars to the neck, Law: -
breast and upperparts. Abundance: Rare
Voice: Frequent, especially during the middle of Seasonality: Resident
the day; soft monotonous but melodious 6-8 Sociality: Usually solitary, occasionally in pairs
notes “croo-croo-croo” or “hur-kuk-kuk”.

DISTRIBUTION
Adult Male

HABITAT USE Length: 21 cm

Status: Least Concern
National Law: - Adult Female
Abundance: Very Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs and small groups
 Family Ordo
Psittaciformes
Psittacidae
Parrots

V ery popular as pets, parrots are well-known to most

people for their intelligence, ability to mimic human
voices and spectacularly colorful plumage. This large
family, together with the closely-related cockatoos of
Australasia, probably evolved in the great southern land
Flight

Typically fast and direct

with deep and rapid wing
beats, often while calling.
mass called Gondwana before it starting breaking apart,
since it is still concentrated in the southern continents
(Australia, South America and Africa). Although no fewer than 81
species of parrots are found in Indonesia, the vast majority occurs to

the east of Java and Bali, in Wallacea (Sulawesi, Maluku and Nusa
Tenggara) or in Papua, where they are shared with the rest of New
Guinea, which is geologically part of Australia.
110
Betet Biasa
Red-breasted Parakeet
Psittacula alexandri
Loud raucous trumpeting calls are invariably the first sign of the
presence of these beautiful birds. With luck they may be seen
dashing low over the canopy, typically in flocks of 15-20
individuals, or alighting with clattering wings on the top of a tall

A deep hooked bill is the main distinguishing feature of this family,
and is used for opening fruits, husking seeds and sometimes
excavating wood, as well as a grip when hanging upside down from
branches. The feet have two toes pointing forward and two pointing
back, a useful arrangement for climbing and food handling. Apart
from fruit and seed, many species are nectar and pollen eaters.
Most parrots are highly social, and form large flocks at time,
particularly at roosts. They are also highly vocal, and are best known
for their raucous screeches and loud whistles. They nest in tree
holes, often using the old nests of barbets and woodpeckers. Due to
their popularity as caged birds, tens of thousands of parrots are
illegally trapped in eastern Indonesia and traded in large ports like
Surabaya.
1 Voice: Noisy. Loud “kekekek” given repeatedly both in flight and
2
Estimate their size
1. Red-breasted Parakeet
2. Oriental Cuckoo
3. Yellow-throated Hanging Parrot
111
tree from whence they can scan the surroundings for danger.
However they are deservedly very wary of humans and easily
take flight when approached. This species is usually encountered
in lightly-wooded never seen in savanna, where it searches for
its food, which reputedly consists of fruits, seeds, nectar, flowers
and leaf buds. It nests in a hollow tree limb or hole in the trunk,
sometimes using old woodpecker holes. This species has a wide
range stretching from the Himalayas through southeast Asia to
Java, but curiously absent from the Sumatran mainland and
northern Borneo.
Identification: Easily recognized by its calls and long, narrow tail
in flight. Head pale blue-grey with thick black 'moustache' over
lower cheeks and chin; pink breast, green back, wings and tail,
red bill. Female slightly duller.
when perched. Nasal “koink”, honking “cheent-cheent”, and
grating “kak-kak-kak-kak..”.
3
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION Length: 35 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Small flocks
 Loriculus pusillus
Yellow-throated Hanging Parrot JB
Serindit Jawa

All but three of the 13 species of Hanging Parrots (Loriculus sp) are
found in Indonesia and none overlap in distribution, except in
Sulawesi, where two species occur. The Yellow-throated Hanging
Parrot is endemic to Java and Bali. These birds derive their name
from their unusual habit of hanging upside-down while sleeping, and
like the Lovebirds (Agapornis sp) to which they are related, are
reported to carry nesting material amidst their rump feathers. Owing
to their tiny size and well-camouflaged green plumage, these birds
are easily overlooked as they clamber about in the dense canopy,
and very difficult to find unless you are lucky enough to see their
112

113
bullet-shaped, almost tailless, bodies dashing over the treetops on
whirring wings. Yellow-throated Hanging Parrots are known to eat
buds and small fruits, such as figs, as well as the nectar from the
flowers of trees such as Dadap (Erythrina sp) and Talok (Grewia sp)
trees.
Identification: Tiny body entirely green except for red rump and a
yellow patch on the throat which is rarely visible. Finely pointed bill
orange-red and legs dusky yellow. Tail very short and rounded.
Voice: Thin, high-pitched "srii-ii" when perched or foraging in tree,
and “crrr…crrr” sound in flight. Also shrill “tsee-sip”, “tsi “or “tsri”.

DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Length: 12 cm

Status: Near Threatened
National Law: -
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Possibly nomadic
Sociality: Single bird, pairs or small flocks
 Family Ordo

Cuculidae
Cuckoos, Malkohas, Coucals
Cuculiformes
Cuculus saturatus

Oriental Cuckoo
Kangkok Ranting

A lthough many species from several bird families show no Flight

parental care for their young, the cuckoos are
undeniably the most famous for this behavior. The
females of most, but not all, cuckoo species lay their
eggs in the nests of other “host” species (a habit known as
Straight, with rapid
wings beat similar with One of several species with very similar
brood parasitism), forcing the latter to look after their offspring, pigeons (true cuckoos). plumage, the Sunda Cuckoo is a resident of
and thereby avoiding all parental responsibilities! Most brood- Peninsular Malaysia and Indonesia from
parasitic cuckoos specialize on a small number of potential host Sumatra to Timor, while its nearly identical
species and employ several “tricks” to fool the host into relatives are migrants from northern
accepting their eggs, such as removing one host egg before laying their own, and mimicking mainland Asia. Although males call from
the egg coloration of the host. Although some hosts recognize and reject the alien egg, exposed branches, especially in the wet
most accept and incubate it along with their own clutch. But when the cuckoo chick
season, the females are quiet and both are
hatches, it destroys the hosts' eggs or chicks by pushing them out of the nest, so that it
generally shy and difficult to approach closely.
114

115
receives all of the food brought by its “foster parents”. Adult Male
Found mainly in monsoon forests and
Like parrots, the cuckoos are zygodactylous, having the outer and inner toes directed
backwards and the other two toes directed forwards. Three groups of this family are mangrove forest, it is easiest to find in wet
represented in the Greater Sundas, most belonging to the true (brood-parasitic) cuckoos, season. The hosts of this cuckoo in Baluran
which are arboreal (tree-dwelling) and characterized by slender bodies with long tails, are unknown.
pointed wings, short legs and relatively short, slightly decurved bills. The plumage of many Identification: Fairly small, generally dark
of these birds, especially the aptly-named “hawk-cuckoos”, apparently mimics that of the grey, except for lower breast and belly which
predatory goshawks and sparrowhawks, and may function to frighten away host birds whilst is barred black and buffy-white, rusty-buff
the female lays its egg in the host's nest. The same plumage in males probably protects undertail and white spots along tail feathers.
them from such raptors while calling, typically from an exposed perch. In flight, both sexes Yellow eye-ring, feet and base of bill. Hepatic
can be easily confused with small raptors. They are insect-eaters, many species specializing (rusty colour morph) female and immatures:
on caterpillars, which they find by scanning the foliage during long periods of inactivity. upperparts, including tail, rufous barred
In contrast to the true cuckoos, the other two groups of this family (Malcohas and Coucals) black, and underparts (from chin to vent)
build their own nests, and look after their own young. Larger than most true cuckoos, they Adult Female white barred black.
have heavier bills and their diet includes small vertebrates (such as small birds) and fruit.
Voice: Never heard in Baluran.
Some 23 species have been recorded in Java, 12 of which may be found in Baluran National
Park.

Length: 26 cm DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE

Estimate their size
1 2 3 4 5 6
1. Oriental Cockoo
2. Rusty-breasted Cuckoo
3. Red-billed Malkoha
4. Chesnut-breasted Malkoha
5. Sunda Coucal
6. Lesser Coucal
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rather Rare
Seasonality: Migrant
Sociality: Solitary
 Cacomantis sepulcralis Zanclostomus javanicus

Rusty-breasted Cuckoo Red-billed Malkoha

Wiwik Uncuing Kadalan Kembang

Like the Sunda Cuckoo, the Rusty-breasted Cuckoo is widespread
through Indonesia, but is easily overlooked unless it is calling, which it
does mostly during the wet season. In Baluran it appears to favour
monsoon forest where it forages and rests beneath the canopy, and
only occasionally perches on an exposed branch.
Identification: Greyish-brown upperparts and dirty orange underparts up
to the chin. Yellow eye-ring and legs; red iris.
Voice: Distinctive melancholy series of ten or more whistled notes slowly
descending in pitch: “whi whi whi whi whi ….”. Also a 3-note phrase “whi-
Adult Male wihu” repeated usually 4 times, each phrase rising in pitch and
accelerating. Or chirping “tririririri…” with higher nada.
Length: 23 cm HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
116
Malkohas are large cuckoos that stealthily
hunt their large insect prey by creeping
and hopping through the dense vine-
tangled canopy or mid-storey before
gliding, somewhat unsteadily, to the next
tree on broad, rounded wings. Like most
members of this group, the Red-billed
Malkoha is restricted to the Greater
Sundas, from Peninsular Malaysia to Java,
so Baluran respresents the eastern edge of
its range. Despite its large size, it is
surprisingly difficult to see because of its
tendency to move slowly within the
canopy, rarely vocalizing. Yet if one is quiet
spends most of its time in the canopy, it
occasionally comes down to the ground to
catch its prey, before climbed back up into
the tree.
Identification: Unmistakable, due to
combination of grey upperparts, rufous-
orange underparts and red bill. Close up,
the pale blue skin around the eye and faint
blue-green gloss to the wings can be seen.
In flight, the white tips to the tail are
striking.
Voice: rarely heard hoarse-soft “turk-urk”
calls, plus another consisting of “kuk”
repeated many times, like a scolding

117
Seasonality: Resident and patient, it can be seen quite reliably in squirrel.
Sociality: Solitary the evergreen forest at Baluran. Due to its
retiring habits, it is never seen in open
Length: 49 cm habitats such as savanna. Although it
Rhamphococcyx curvirostris Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Chesnut-breasted Malkoha Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
HABITAT USE

Kadalan Birah Sociality: Solitary

Similar in habits and habitat to the shy and retiring Red-

billed Malkoha, the Chestnut-breasted Malkoha is more DISTRIBUTION
conspicuous by its slightly larger size and more frequent
vocalizations.This bird appears to deceive the observer by
flying around him or her, then returning to the original
place.
Identification: Unmistakable due to size, dark green
upperparts with blue-green gloss, dark chestnut
underparts and tail tips, and pale green bill. Close up Length: 46 cm
note the thick crimson bare skin around the eye.. Status: Least Concern
Voice: deep “tok-tok-tok”, faster tempo in flight. National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Length: 46 cm
Centropus nigrorufus Status: Vulnerable

Sunda
Bubut Jawa
Coucal J National Law: -
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary

Unlike true cuckoos, but like Malkohas,
Coucals build their own nests and look
after their own offspring, but unlike
members of these groups, many species
inhabit grassland or scrubland, where they
walk and run on the ground. The Sunda
Coucal is one of Java's 30 odd endemic
bird species, but being confined to the
coastal lowlands, it is also one its rarest
and most threatened species. Until 2009 it
was known to occur only from Muara
Angke in the west of Java to Sidoarjo and
the Brantas estuary (Ujung Pangkah) in the
east until this birds was
photographed in
Baluran, in Gatel
118
coastal habitat is the main factor causing
the decline of its global population.
Although Baluran supports a relatively
large area of mangrove forest (272 ha) that
is spread evenly along the coastline,
records of this bird are still very limited in
the Park, and it is most easily observed at
Gatel block, especially around the fish
ponds where the habitat is quite open and
dominated by Beluntas (Pluchea indica).
Here it appears to prefer areas with dense
shrubs and little canopy, and may be seen
perched on the top of such shrubs during
the early morning. It forages among the
branches of these shrubs, and also walks Size: 42 cm
on the forest floor, but little is known of its Status: Least Concern
Centropus bengalensis

Block.
Degradation
of
diet and its nest is still unknown.
Identification: The plumage is entirely
black with a purple gloss, except for the
wing which is rufous with blackish tips to
flight feathers and wing-coverts. Its bill
is somewhat longer and more robust
than Lesser Coucal.
Voice: Rarely heard, but much
deeper and quieter than the
Lesser Coucal with a faster
tempo: "HUUP-HUUP-
HUUP".
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Law: -
Abundance: Very Common
Migration: Resident
Social: Solitary
A common, adaptable species, ranging
from India and southeast Asia through all
of Indonesia to the islands east of Timor,
the Lesser Coucal is nonetheless much
more often heard than seen. Its distinctive
booming voice is one of the characteristic
sounds of Baluran National Park, where it
may be heard throughout the day during
the rainy season. During the dry season,
however, this bird is rarely heard or
observed. The best time to see it is in the
early morning, when it often basks in the
tops of trees and shrubs, especially after
rain. It occupies savanna, monsoon forest
and forest edge. As with all Coucals, its
flight is slow and somewhat clumsy, and
usually only a short distance.
119
Lesser Coucal Bubut Alangalang
Identification: Breeding plumage is mostly
black, with rufous-brown wings and
mantle, the latter tinged blackish and
narrowly streaked white. In non-breeding
and immature plumage, head and mantle
are dark-brown streaked white, wings
rufous-brown barred black, and
underparts buffy-white barred dark
brown.
Voice: Deep hollow-sounding “totok,
totok, toto-puk, toto-puk, toto-puk” call
notes, slowly accelerating and descending
in pitch.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
 Tyto alba
Family Ordo

Tytonidae Strigiformes
Barn Owl Serak Jawa
Masked Owls
This familiar, cosmopolitan species acquired its name from its habit of roosting and
nesting in farm buildings. Although absent from Kalimantan, and generally uncommon
in Sumatra, Java and Bali, the Barn Owl is the commonest owl at Baluran. This bird is

R
evered or feared, owls are familiar to peoples Flight
around the globe, instantly recognizable by their
upright stance and forward-facing eyes. The flat
facial disk surrounding the eyes, and large, sometime
Rarely seen, as normally
asymmetrical ear bones, sharpen their hearing and ability
active only at night
to pin-point their prey during the night, when they usually unless discovered and
hunt. Being birds of prey, they have a hooked bill and sharp mobbed by small birds.
talons on their toes. The Tytonid (masked) owls are easily Silent wings, facilitated
distinguished from the typical owls (Strigidae) by their by soft plumage.
prominent heart-shaped (rather than circular) facial disks,
and generally longer legs, as well as screeching calls. Of the 11 species of owls
120
easy to find at dusk in the savanna surrounding Bekol, where they hunt the rats that
make their nests in the cracked clay soil of this habitat. During the day the owls hide in
dark places such as tree holes, caves, or dense vegetation, whereas in the evening
they may perch on exposed branches on isolated trees in the savanna or other open
areas. In addition to rodents, they feed on birds, lizards and even insects.
Identification: Unmistakable with white underparts, finely dotted black, and heart-
shaped face.
Voice: Frequently heard; usual call is a harsh, hoarse screech with a hissing quality:
"shiish" or "se-rak”.

121
found in Java, only two are Tytonids, and the remaining nine are typical owls,
many of are recognizable by erectile tufts of feathers above their ears. Most
owls nest in holes or crevices in trees, cliffs, or even buildings, and the females
of all species lay white eggs. In many species both sexes incubate the eggs, while
in others, the female incubates alone, but is fed by the smaller male on the nest.
The chicks are covered in whitish down at hatching, and are fed by both parents.

Estimate their size 2

1
4
3

1. Buffy Fish Owl

2. Spotted Wood Owl
3. Barn Owl
4. Oriental Pied Hornbill

Length: 34 cm DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE

Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Strix seloputo
Family Ordo
Strigiformes Spotted Wood Owl
Strigidae Kukuk Selaputo

Typical owls
Another often overlooked owl, even with its
huge size doesn't mean easy to see it. This bird
prefers to dense forest as resting site. Very

T
his family has a wide distribution on earth except Flight quiet on daylight, yet only tighten its feathers
Antarctica, most of them inhabit in the tropics. As when disturbed make it bark-like appearance.
So far was found only in Bekol.
a Strigiformes order member with Tytonidae,
Identification: Pale rufous facial with large
they share many features with their tytonids Similar to tytonids. eyes. Dark brown upperparts with whote
relatives. Optimize their sharp eye as a primary feature speckles and spots. White to buffy-white below
to spot their prey, pin it then grab with sharp talons and with well-spaced bars (Robson 2000). Big-
hooked. Broad and strong wing with soft but dense feathers produce circular looked head with no ear tufts.
silent wing beats. Easy to distinguished with tytonids by its circular Voice: Abrupt booming “who” or “uuh” every
facial disk then heart-shaped (see Tytonidae). Many of are recognizable 8-11 second (Robson 2000) MacKinnon et al.
(1998) said as deep resonance “belup” or “hup-
by erectile tufts of feathers above their ears, and they do not function hung”.
in sound acquisition. Of the nine typical owls in Java, only four species
122

123
occurred in Baluran and they were rarely seen.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Length: 47 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Ketupa ketupu Abundance: Rare

Buffy Fish Owl Seasonality: Resident

Sociality: Solitary
Beluk Ketupa

This bird is resident in South Asia (India and Bangladesh)

to South-east Asia, vagrant in Australia. It is probably
extinct anyway in India. Refers to its name, this owl DISTRIBUTION
prefers to hunt prey from water. In Baluran it was found
inside dense forests which is bordering to mangrove
forest. It rarely be seen, so far been found only in Bama.
Resting on big trees in the daylight.
Identification: Buffy brown. Darker brown on upperparts,
bar-winged, then streaked lighter underparts. Broadly Length: 45 cm
HABITAT USE Status: Least Concern
streaked ear-tufts (Robson 2000). White eye-brows.
National Law: -
Yellow iris. Abundance: Rare
Voice: Monotonous “bup-bup-bup-bup-bup”, high Seasonality: Resident
screeching “yiark-yark-yeek” (Robson 2000), Sociality: Solitary
“kutukukutuk” (MacKinnon and Phillipps 1993).
 Family Ordo Caprimulgus affinis
Caprimulgiformes Savanna Nightjar
Caprimulgidae Cabak Kota
Nightjars
Four species of nightjars occur in Java, and two are found in Baluran. The
Savannah Nightjar is a widespread species whose range extends from India

L ike owls, nightjars are nocturnal, yet they

differ in most other respects due to their
diet, which in contrast to that of the
predatory owls, consists of aerial insects caught
on the wing. Generally small to medium-sized
Flight

Sally from the ground or

with long, slender, pointed wings and a long tail,
their flight is buoyant and butterfly-like. The bill
of nightjars is tiny, but it is surrounded by long
(rectal) bristles and opens into an enormous
mouth, features that enable them to snare and
suck in moths and other insects in flight, the
bristles also protecting the eyes from damage
due to the impact of larger insects. Again, in
124
perch, or 'trawl' back and
forth with erratic, buoyant,
slow flapping and short
glides.
through South-east Asia to Timor. At Baluran, it occupies the monsoon forest,
savanna and open fields or fish ponds along the coast. Like most nightjars, it
seems most active at dusk and dawn, flying over open areas in pursuit of aerial
insects, and often resting on the roads or paths. During the day, however, it
sleeps on the ground amongst the grass or leaf litter on the beach or in the
savanna, unless it is disturbed, whereupon it flies into the woodland or forest.
Identification: Appears uniformly greyish-brown, but close up, finely barred with
white and black. Male has a white spot at the base of the flight feathers, and
white outer tail feathers, whereas the female has a rufous-buff wing-spot and no
white in the tail.
Voice: Plaintive but penetrating, sneezing "cwuirp", given in flight as well as
from a perch and repeated often.

125
contrast to owls, their perching posture is
horizontal as their legs are very short and their
feet feebly small. Indeed most species rest by day
on the ground, where they rely on their
exquisitely camouflaged plumage to hide from
predators amongst the leaf litter. Their cryptic
coloration is also useful when sitting on their
eggs, which are laid directly on the ground rather
than in a nest, and are themselves cryptically
colored to avoid detection by egg predators. So,
too, are the downy chicks, which are capable of
walking soon after they hatch.

DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Length: 22 cm

Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Family Ordo
Apodiformes
Hemiprocnidae
Treeswifts
Estimate their size
1 2 3

T
1. Grey-rumped Treeswift
his small family has only three members, Flight 2. Barn Swallow
3. Cave Swiftlet
all confined to South-east Asia and north
Melanesia. As their name suggests,
treeswifts spend much of their time perching in Rapid wing beats followed
trees, as their legs are much stronger than those by long glides or swoops
of the true swifts (Apodidae), from which they
also differ in having longer wings and tail. From

Grey-rumped Treeswift
The only treeswift in Java, this species is
these high perches, they make dashing sorties in
often conspicuous due to its loud high-
pursuit of flying insects, returning to the same pitched calls. At Baluran it is widely-
spot presumably to digest their meal. The distributed, but is most often seen in
shallow cup of a nest is attached to a branch, monsoon and littoral forests, as well as in
and is largely hidden by the incubating adult. tree plantations. It is often seen perched
at the tops of tall trees, from which it
126

127
swoops after flying insects, “hawking” in a
wide circle, reminiscent of a bee-eater.
Identification: When perched, long wing-

Hemiprocne longipennis
tips cross over either side of the long
forked tail, and short crest on forehead

Tepekong Jambul
sometimes visible. Generally grey with
green gloss, but wings and tail blackish,
Adult Female
and underparts paler. Chestnut-brown
cheek in males, green in females.
Juvenile Male Immature is browner, with black and
white barring and scaling.
Voice: Loud, high-pitched repeated “cher-
tee-too”.

DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Length: 20 cm

Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Adult Male in Flight Abundance: Very Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs and flocks
 Family Ordo Harpactes oreskios

Trogonidae Trogoniformes Orange-breasted Trogon

Luntur Harimau
Trogons

F lamboyant in their plumage, the trogons are paradoxically

shy birds that are easily overlooked as they sit quietly for
long periods in the middle stage of the forest interior.
Although these reluctant jewels are denizens of tropical
rainforests right around the world, they never managed to cross
Flight

Slow flapping, usually

short distances.
One of the most widely-distributed of the
Asian trogons, the Orange-breasted
Trogon is the most tolerant of disturbance,
and can be found in a variety of forest
the deep waters marking Wallace's Line, and indeed, are no longer types, including deciduous woodlands and
found on Bali. Their small, weak feet have two toes in front and bamboo thickets. In Baluran, it has been
two behind, but uniquely in this family it is the first and second toes, rather than the seen only in the crater of Mount Baluran,
first and fourth, that have shifted to the rear - a condition known as heterodactyl. They and the population is obviously very small.
feed mainly on large insects, which are snatched from foliage or the ground, Like other trogons, it perches for long
sometimes in mid-air, with their short but wide-gaped bill during short sallies or periods in the lower levels of the forest
pounces from their perches. Occasionally fruit, such as those of palms and cecropias, while scanning the surrounding foliage
and even lizards, are also eaten. Trogons nest in tree holes, often in excavated tree and ground for suitable prey items, which
stumps. Two species occur in Java, one of which is the distinctive Javan-endemic Blue- include grasshoppers, cicadas, stick-
tailed Trogon, but as that species is confined to mountains, only one species occurs in insects, caterpillars, and spiders, as well as
128
Identification: Chestnut mantle, scapulars
and uppertail; head, neck and upper
breast olive in the male, and grey in the
female. Lower breast and belly yellow in
females, latter orange-yellow in males.
Wing black, finely barred white on the
wing coverts. Edges and underside of tail
white. Bill (except for tip), gape and bare
skin around eye are greyish-blue.
Voice: Calls quite frequently; repeated
harsh “kek-kek”. Song phrase is 3 to 4
even-pitched notes, often preceded by 1
to 3 shorter notes: “teu-teu-teu” or “kek-
tau-tau-tau”.

129
the lowlands of Baluran. lizards.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Estimate their size 1 2 3
1. Chesnut-breasted Malkoha
2. Orange-breasted Trogon
3. Yellow-vented Bulbul

Length: 25 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1, 2
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Family Ordo Alcedo meninting

Alcedinidae
Kingfishers
Coraciiformes Blue-eared Kingfisher
Rajaudang Meninting

W idely-distributed around the world, though Flight

concentrated in the Southern Hemisphere
continents, the kingfishers are well-known Direct, with fast wing
as fish-eaters, but despite their name, most members flapping, often as call
of this family take a wide variety of vertebrate and
invertebrate prey. Characteristics include a relatively
large head with a long dagger-shaped bill, short legs and weak feet, in which the
second and third front toes are fused at the base. Members of this family are
grouped into three sub-families, of which two are represented in Indonesia and the
surrounding region. Smallest in size are the jewel-like dwarf kingfishers
(Alcedininae), which have very short tails and fine, laterally-compressed bills; one
group (genus Alcedo) of these birds lives beside water bodies, feeding on small fish
and crustaceans, while the other (genus Ceyx) inhabits forests, catching
invertebrates from the ground or low foliage. These birds also have thin high-
130

131
pitched voices and usually nest in burrows. The other sub-family (wood kingfishers,
Halcyoninae) is characterized by longer tails and heavier bills, which are used to This species has the largest geographical range of the DISTRIBUTION

catch a wide variety of prey, including worms, frogs and lizards. Their calls are local dwarf kingfishers, stretching from India to
strident or mournful, and often nest in dead trees or termite nests. Java has 14 Sulawesi and Lombok. In Baluran, however, it is not
an easy bird to find due to its small population and
species, of which six are dwarf kingfishers and eight, wood kingfishers.
restricted distribution, apparently limited to the
dense littoral forest at Bama and along Bajulmati
HABITAT USE
River. Here it perches unobtrusively on horizontal
Estimate their size branches or roots just above the water, periodically
plunging into the water to spear small fish, which are
5
6 then carried to another perch, bashed against the
1 2 3
4 7 substrate until dead, then swallowed head first.
Identification: Head and upper parts are mostly dark
blue, lighter on the back and rump, while the breast Length: 15 cm
and belly are rusty-orange. Throat and oval marking Status: Least Concern
behind the ear (side-neck) is white. Feet and most of National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very rare
bill red.
Seasonality: Resident
Voice: thin, high-pitched repeated whistle: “tii..tii..” Sociality: Solitary
often given in flight.
1. Blue-eared Kingfisher 5. Javan Kingfisher
2. Rufous-backed Kingfisher 6. Collared Kingfisher
3. Cerulean Kingfisher 7. Sacred Kingfisher
4. Banded Kingfisher
 Ceyx erithaca Alcedo coerulescens

Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher In Cerulean Kingfisher

Udang Api Rajaudang Biru
132

133
Ranging from Peninsular Malaysia through the Greater Sundas to Also called Small Blue Kingfisher, this species is
Sumba, this beautiful species is one of the latest additions to the DISTRIBUTION DISTRIBUTION
endemic to Indonesia, being found only from Sumatra
Baluran checklist. It was first found in Baluran in 2011, when one to Sumbawa. In Baluran, it is common in coastal
individual was seen on Curah Uling, a rain-fed river in evergreen mangrove forests as well as fish ponds, and is often
forest, and in Manting block coastal forest. This species normally lives seen perched low on mangrove stilt roots or on the
in the vicinity of streams and pools within lowland
top of stumps or poles in the middle of ponds, from
forest, where it feeds on aquatic insects and small fish.
whence it dives into the water to catch aquatic
As with other dwarf kingfishers, while watching for HABITAT USE HABITAT USE
invertebrates and small fish. In such open habitats, it
prey this bird often jerkily bobs its head, while keeping
the rest of the body perfectly motionless. As the
can also be seen flying from one location to another,
Rufous-backed Kingfisher hybridizes with the more like a bullet travelling just above the water surface.
widely-distributed 'Black-backed Kingfisher' in several Identification: Greenish-blue upperparts and white
parts of its range, both are now usually treated as sub- underparts interrupted by a greenish-blue band across
species of a single species, the Oriental Dwarf the breast. The lores and marking behind the ears are
Length: 14 cm Length: 14 cm
Kingfisher (C. erithaca). Status: Least concern Status: Least concern
also white. The bill is black and the legs, red and
Identification: Unmistakable tiny bird with purplish-red National Law: 1,2 National Law: 1, 2 blackish.
upperparts and orange-yellow underparts. White on Abundance: Very Rare Abundance: Common Voice: High pitched, thin whistle of 2-3 notes:
throat and behind the ear coverts. Red bill and feet. Seasonality: Resident Seasonality: Resident “tiw…tiw…”, often while in flight.
Sociality: Solitary Sociality: Solitary
Voice: Like the Blue-eared Kingfisher.

Banded Kingfisher
134
The only member of its genus, this species
is unusual among kingfishers in that the
female has a completely different plumage
to the male. A denizen of lowland and hill
forest, it ranges from Thailand through the
Greater Sundas, but is generally rare in
Java and entirely absent from Bali. In
Baluran, it is possibly the rarest of the
kingfishers, having been recorded only
from the crater of Mount Baluran. It
prefers undisturbed forest with a dense
canopy, where it perches at a range of
heights, and feeds on various ground-
dwelling invertebrates and lizards.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Length: 20 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1, 2
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
Lacedo pulchella
Cekakak Batu
Identificati
on: Both sexes
are conspicuously
barred, but the
upperparts are blue in the male
and rufous in the female. White
underparts are barred black in the female.
Male also has rufous forehead, cheeks,
collar and flanks. Red bill in both sexes.
Voice: Not heard in Baluran. Elsewhere
known to give a series of 15 loud
melancholy disyllabic whistled notes “chi-
wiu”, with de-crescendo (Wells 1999).
Halcyon cyanoventris
Javan Kingfisher
Cekakak Jawa
JB
This beautiful bird is found only on Java
and Bali, yet is surprisingly common in
wetlands and fields throughout these
islands. Widely-distributed in Baluran, it is
easiest to observe in open habitats such as
paddyfields, yet is also occurs in forest
with dense canopy such as in the crater of
Mount Baluran. Perching on a low branch
or at the top of a pole or thatched roof of
a pondok, it swoops down on its prey,
which consists of eels, frogs, lizards and
large insects (Mason and Jarvis 1989).
Identification: Dark chocolate-brown head
HABITAT USE
135
and throat, more rufous on collar and
breast; dark bluish-purple body; turquoise-
blue tail and wings except for blackish
inner wing-coverts and tips to flight
feathers; white patch in primaries obvious
in flight. Bill and legs are red.
Voice: Tends to be quiet except in flight or
when disturbed. Loud, harsh, staccato
chatter: “tjee-ree-ree-ree-ree”, or
repeated “che-ree” (Mason and Jarvis
1989; Handbook Of The Birds Of The
World). Valve sound when perching or
resting “tlak tlak”, in low tone.
DISTRIBUTION
Size: 25 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rare
Migration: Resident
Social: Solitary or in pairs
 Halcyon sancta

Sacred Kingfisher
Cekakak Australia
DISTRIBUTION

A breeding resident of Australia, this species

migrates north and west during the austral
winter to New Guinea and much of Indonesia,
including Java and Bali, but only occasionally
reaching as far as Sumatra. In Java it is common
HABITAT USE
along the coast from April to September, and in
Baluran, is mainly associated with mangrove
forests. It typically perches on low branches and
aerial roots of mangrove trees, but also often
alights on mudflats and sandy beaches, as well
as moored boats and poles. Length: 22 cm
Status: Least Concern
Identification: Similar to the Collared Kingfisher National Law: 1, 2
Halcyon chloris
except smaller, duller and more greenish, and Abundance: Rather Rare
Collared Kingfisher
136

having buff or rufous washes on the breast
and/or flanks, and eyebrow.
Voice: Shrill crie of 4 or 5 short notes “ki-ki-ki-ki-
(ki)”, less vocal and raucous than the resident
Collared Kingfisher.
Seasonality: Migrant in dry
season
Sociality: Solitary
137
Cekakak Sungai
Undoubtedly the commonest kingfisher in Indonesia, and
probably the whole of south-east Asia, this species is a
familiar sight on overhead wires and telegraph poles in DISTRIBUTION
cities, towns and other anthropogenic habitats. In
Baluran, it is almost annoyingly abundant, occupying
every available habitat, although it is rarely seen in the
savanna. Its raucous call, usually given from an exposed
tree perch, betrays its presence throughout the day. On
the coast, at low tide, is often seen perched on isolated
HABITAT USE
rocks or tree stumps on mudflats, habitats shared with
the somewhat similar, migratory Sacred Kingfisher.
Identification: Dark turquoise upperparts with bright blue
wings and tail; clean white underparts, collar and loral
spot ('headlight'). A blackish stripe extends from the bill
through the eye to the nape.
Length: 25 cm
Voice: Highly vocal and raucous. Main call is loud, nasal, Status: Least Concern
shrieking series of 3-5 notes, slightly descending in pitch: " National Law: 1,2
kek-kek-kek-kek-kek"; also a disyllabic call, the first syllable Abundance: Very common
rising, the second falling: "ges-ngek, ges-ngek, ges-ngek". Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary or pairs
 Family Ordo Merops philippinus

Meropidae Coraciiformes Blue-tailed Bee-eater

Kirikkirik Laut
Bee-eaters
The most widespread of the local bee-
eaters, this species breeds in northern
India, south Asia and New Guinea, and
beetles and other aerial insects. Like the
previous species, it often rests on the
ground or get drink in the afternoon.

T
his is a smaller family than Alcedinidae Flight migrates to southern India, Peninsular Identification: Dull green crown and
(kingfishers), with a more restricted Malaysia and the Greater Sundas for the mantle, blue rump and tail, the latter with
distribution, being absent from the New austral summer (wet season), arriving in two elongate. Yellow chin grading to dark
World (Americas). Like most kingfishers, Fast, especially while hunting August-September and departing from chestnut throat; breast and belly pale
bee-eaters are colourful sit-and-wait predators their prey. Long flights are March to May (Coates and Bishop 1997, green. Black eye-stripe bordered above
with short legs and partially fused toes, and their direct and gently undulating. Wells 1999). In Java, birds on passage are and below with thin blue lines. Dull orange
white eggs are laid in burrows. They differ from often heard migrating overhead during the underwings are obvious in flight.
day from September to October and from Voice: Plaintive, repeated double note:
kingfishers, however, in having a slender body with
March to May (Holmes and Nash 1989). “kwink-kwink-kwink” often in flight.
elongated tail feathers, and pointed wings, Within Baluran, however, its distribution is
adaptations for spending more time in the air. Like swifts and largely limited to coastal area, particularly
swallows, bee-eaters glide gracefully and acrobatically. They use their mangrove forests, on the North coast
long, slightly down-curved bills to catch air-borne insects, especially and around Bama beach during
138

139
bees and wasps, which they carry back to the perch, then beat and rub passage migration season. This
to immobilize and remove the sting, before swallowing. Most species species is more aerial than other
are gregarious, and many breed colonially. bee-eaters, gracefully soaring or
Three species of bee-eaters occur in Java, and two of them are found hawking in wide circles over open
areas in wide circles to catch
in Baluran.
bees, wasps, dragonflies, termites,

Estimate their size

1 2 3 4

1. Blue-tailed Bee-eater
2. Chesnut-headed Bee-eater Length: 30 cm
3. Grey-rumped Treeswift Status: Least Concern
4. Barn Swallow
National Law: - HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Migrant
Sociality: Flocks,
sometimes quite large in
hundreds.
 Merops leschenaulti
Chestnut-headed Bee-eater
Kirikkirik Senja

The distribution of this small bird extends from India to Bali but it is
not continuous, as it is absent from Borneo, and most of Peninsular
Malaysia and Sumatra. In Baluran it is widespread, occurring from
the coast to the crater of Mount Baluran. This species prefers a
combination of patchy forest or plantations and grassland, foraging
over forest canopy as well as around isolated trees in savanna.
Wasps, bees, dragonflies, butterflies and termites are caught on the
wing, usually after a short sally from an exposed branch at the top
of a tree or shrub. Sometimes, usually in the afternoon, large flocks
140

141
descend to the ground at locations with pools of water to bathe.
Identification: Rufous-chestnut crown and mantle; dull green wings
and tail, but pale blue rump. Bright yellow throat, bordered
underneath with rufous, then a black gorget. Pale green belly.
Voice: Vocal. High pitched trill, “krikk-krikk-krikk” often given in
flight where its Indonesian name comes from: Kirik-kirik.

HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION

Length: 20 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Flocks
 Family Ordo
Coraciiformes
Coraciidae
Rollers
Eurystomus orientalis

Oriental Dollarbird
Tionglampu Biasa

J ust as the bee-eaters are slender-bodied Flight
and mostly dressed in green, the big-headed
rollers are stockily-built and typically blue in
coloration. Like the two previous families Slow flapping with deep
(kingfishers and bee-eaters), rollers have short wing beats, and gliding;
legs and small feet with partially fused front most active at dusk, often
toes, and lay whitish eggs in enclosed nests. But acrobatic.
in contrast to those two groups, they have
relatively short, broad bills with a slight hook,
and as their name implies, they have a distinctive rolling and rocking manner of
flying, especially during display flights. Like bee-eaters the family is confined to
the Old World, with the majority in Africa, although two species are endemic to
eastern Indonesia. Java has but one species, which has a broad distribution.
142
One of the most widespread species of rollers, the Dollarbird is a
breeding summer migrant to the northern (e.g. north China) and
southern parts of its range (e.g. Australia), but a resident over much of
tropical South-east Asia and Indonesia. Breeding populations occur in
Java, but the island is also visited by at least one migratory race from the
north during the wet season. Dollarbirds derive their name from a
rounded silvery-blue patch in each wing, visible only when they are
flying. A rare wet season visitor to Baluran, these birds favour clearings
on the edge of the monsoon forest, where they spend much of their time
perched on exposed branches near the tops of large, often dead trees.
From here they swoop down upon large flying insects, such as cicadas,
beetles and crickets. However they are most active in the late afternoon
and dusk, when they may be seen patrolling for insects above the
canopy, sometimes at great height, or indulging in acrobatic display

143
flights, in which they alternately glide upward then dive, after almost
Estimate their size 1 2 3
stalling.
Identification: Easily recognized by its large head and sturdy red bill.
Generally dull greenish-blue with a dark brown head and cobalt-blue
throat. Wings are mainly dark blue and black, with a bluish-white patch
on the primaries. Red bill and feet.
Voice: Harsh croaking “krek-krek”.

DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE

1. Chesnut-headed Bee-eater
2. Javan Kingfisher
3. Oriental Dollarbird

Length: 30 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Migrant
Sociality: Solitary
 Family Ordo Rhyticeros undulatus

Bucerotidae
Hornbills
Coraciiformes
Wreathed Hornbill
Julang Emas

A s their name implies, the hornbills have a Flight

distinctive bony casque on the upper surface of Ranging from India through south-east Asia longer. Like the other hornbills, they often
their bills, which is partly or largely hollow. The to Bali, this species is considered nomadic perch in the tallest trees with a dense
function of this casque is still debated, as it is used and is known to travel large distances in canopy, and sometimes roost on Gebang
to chisel off bark, as well as in combat between rival Noisy, with slow, deep search of food, including across the Bali palm (Corypha utan).
males, but a small opening to the mouth suggests that it wingbeats. . Straits. In Malaysia, it appears to be less Identification: Mostly black with a
may also serve as a resonance chamber, accounting for dependent on figs than most other hornbill conspicuous white tail. Male has creamy-
the distinctively nasal quality of the calls of several larger species. At Baluran, Wreathed Hornbills are white head and neck, with a dark rufous
species. Other distinctive morphological features of these birds are long eyelashes, often seen in the eastern costal and crown and nape plumes; inflatable throat
bare and often brightly-coloured skin around the eyes, and pronounced sexual southern side of the park during the skin is yellow with a thin blue-black
dimorphism. But perhaps the most conspicuous characteristic of these magnificent morning, while in the evening they have transverse line. Female has black head and
birds, and often the only clue to their presence in the tall forest canopy, is the been observed heading towards Mount neck, and the throat pouch is bluish with a
“whooshing” made by their wings when flying, which is due to their lack of underwing Baluran. When a pair black line. Both sexes have a pale cream bill
or small group is with rufous transverse corrugations at the
coverts that normally cover the base of the flight feathers. Contrary to popular belief,
disturbed, the base, and pinkish-red skin around the eye.
the hornbills are not related to the toucans, their ecological counterparts in the New male is usually
World, but are instead related to the kingfishers and rollers, with which they share The low casque is whitish with blackish
the first to fly, corrugations.
144

145
partially fused toes. They also nest in holes, but remarkably and uniquely, the the female
incubating female seals herself into the nest cavity by plastering up the entrance hole Voice: A harsh, repeated, dog-like double
tending to bark "kuk-guk", repeated and with emphasis
with mud at first, then her viscid faeces, leaving only a small slit through which food, remain still for on the second syllable (Wells 1999).
mostly fruit, can be passed by her mate. The imprisoned female then lays her eggs,
usually two, and incubates them for 25 to 40 days depending on the size of the species, DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
and often moults all of her flight feathers, becoming temporarily flightless. She breaks
out of the nest towards the middle of the nestling period or when the young (usually
only one) fledge, 50-90 days after hatching. After such a long period of confinement,
she understandably becomes fat, dirty, and so stiff that she is barely capable of flying.
This extraordinary reproductive strategy, however, presumably protects the nest
occupants against predators such as monkeys, especially when the chicks are young
and naked. Although 8-10 species of hornbills are found in Sumatra and Borneo, only
three occur in Java, because of its smaller size; all three are found in Baluran. Adult Female

Estimate their size Adult Male

3
1

2 4

1. Wreathed Hornbill
2. Oriental Pied Hornbill
3. Rhinoceros Hornbill
4. Crested Hawk-Eagle
Length: 100 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs or small
groups (8 individuals at
most)
 Anthracoceros albirostris
Oriental Pied Hornbill
Kangkareng Perut-putih
With a similar global range to the
Wreathed Hornbill, this species is the
smallest of the hornbills found in Java, and
is more partial to open or disturbed
habitats, such as clearings and forest edge.
In Baluran, it is a widespread and common
bird, especially in coastal forests, but it
avoids the savanna. It has been observed
eating the fruits of the Banyan (Ficus spp)
and young Gebang palms (Corhypa utan)
in the park, but is also known to eat
insects. In other parts of its range, this
species has been recorded as taking fruit
from 35 species of trees, of which figs are
the minority. However, it is also known to
146
eat animals such as centipedes, spiders,
Length: 75 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1, 2
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Flocks of up to ten.
earthworms, lizards and small birds
(Handbook Of The Birds Of The World).
Identification: Predominantly black, with
white on belly and thighs, trailing edge of
wings and outer tail feathers, and a small
patch below eyes. Bill and large casque
pale yellow with black markings at base of
lower mandible and front of casque and
upper mandible. Bluish-white skin around
eye. Female smaller with shorter
projection at front of casque and more
black on bill.
Voice: Vocal; harsh cackle: "ayak-yak-yak-
yak" (MacKinnon et al. 1998), repeated
incessantly.
HABITAT USE
DISTRIBUTION
Buceros rhinoceros
Rhinoceros Hornbill
Enggang Cula
More restricted in its
geographical distribution than
the other two local species of
hornbills, the Rhinoceros Hornbill
occurs only from the Thai-Malay
peninsula to Java, being absent from Bali.
147
Baluran is therefore at the eastern limit of
its range, and the local population is
understandably small. The records of
Rhinoceros Hornbill were encountered no large size,
more than 2 individuals. Pairs have been very large red and
seen in the coastal forests of Bama, yellow casque, and white
Manting and Popongan, as well as around tail with a broad black band.
Mount Baluran to the west. The best Bill and horn are dark yellow,
chance to see these magnificent bird slightly orange at the base of the
might be around the two giant Kepuh casque. Belying its name, the Javan race B.
trees (Sterculia foetida) along the r. silvestris lacks the up-curved part of the
Batangan-Bekol road at HM-52 (kilometers casque that is evident in the other races.
of 5.2 from main gate). Figs are an Half of the front and lower bill is white. Iris
important part of their diet, but many red iris in male, white in female.
other fruits are eaten, as well as animals, Voice: Loud trumpeting "Honk… hank..."
such as lizards and frogs and birds' eggs. that can be heard over great distances.
Identification: Easily recognized by its
Length: 110 cm DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Status: Near Threatened
National Law: 1, 2
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs
 Barbet
Family Ordo

Megalaima javensis

Takur Tulung-tumpuk
Piciformes JB
Capitonidae
Barbets

Black-banded
A nyone who has ever experienced rainforest in
South-east Asia has probably heard barbets, even
if they are unaware of it. Their incessant,
monotonous calls can be heard all day long. But finding
the source of these calls is a different matter, as these
Flight

Shallow and fast wingbeats.

Straight.
green-garbed vocalists remain motionless among foliage
at the top of tall trees. Like the trogons, barbets occur in
tropical regions throughout the world. Despite general appearances, barbets
are most closely related to woodpeckers, sharing with them the same
arrangement of toes, with two pointing forwards and two back, which enables
members of both families to perch upright on tree trunks (Phillipps and
Phillipps 2009) as they excavate holes in rotten trees for nesting and roosting.
148

149
However their bills are robust and conical, surrounded by whisker-like bristles,
and they have two large unfeathered sacs (normally hidden beneath feathers)
on either side of the throat, which are used as resonance chambers when
calling (Phillipps and Phillipps 2009). Barbets feed mainly on fruit, especially
figs, and whilst they are typically territorial and solitary, fruiting figs may Found only in Java and Bali, the Black- apparently at any time of the year, but
attract many individuals comprising several species with no obvious banded Barbet occurs in lowland and nothing is known of its breeding
aggression. Most species also take insects, and some occasionally catch small hill forests up to 1500 m above sea biology.
lizards. Of the 16 species found in Indonesia, six occur in Java, two of which level. Because of its restricted Identification: Like most Asian barbets,
are endemic to Java and Bali, and one to western Java. Three species can be distribution very little is known about its predominantly green, but recognizable
found in Baluran. ecology. In Baluran, it is generally scarce from its large size, yellow crown and red
but is most reliably found around the throat, and broad black eyestripe
Estimate their size crater of Mount Baluran and along extending down through ear-coverts to
Bajulmati River. As with most barbets, it connect with black breast band. Also a
1 is often difficult to point the location of yellow-green spot on the cheeks.
4
2 1. Black-banded Barbet a calling bird, as it periodically turns its Voice: Deep, trembling double note
2. Blue-eared Barbet
3
3. Copersmith Barbet
head to widen its broadcast. Like other “thug-thug” or “too-took”, repeated for
4. Sacred Kingfisher barbets, this species nests in tree-holes, 10-60 seconds.

Length: 26 cm
Status: Near Threatened DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Usually solitary, except when
congregating at fruiting trees.
 Megalaima australis

Blue-eared Barbet
Takur Tenggeret

Nest Building

The incessant and monotonous double note

call of this species can be heard in lowland
and hill forest from Nepal through South-
east Asia to Bali. In Baluran, however, it has
been recorded only in the evergreen forest
at Mount Baluran crater and along Bajulmati
river, where it visits fruiting trees, such as
Banyans (Ficus spp). Like other species of
barbets, Blue-eared Barbet form temporary Megalaima haemacephala
aggregations of up to 100 birds in one
fruiting tree (Handbook Of The Birds Of The Coppersmith Barbet
150

151
World).
Identification: Predominantly green, with Takur Ungkut-ungkut
blue crown and throat, bordered below with
a black bar. Black malar stripe. The Javan
race M. a. australis has yellow cheeks and
upper breast. Often found in open habitats, such as is tiny to avoid predators and nest hole
Voice: Double call, somewhat similar to urban parks and gardens, as well as forest competitors.
Black-banded Barbet but faster: “tre-trrekk”, edges, the Coppersmith Barbet has a wide Identification: Back, wings and tail bluish-
repeated about 100 times per minute. distribution, from India through South- green; underparts dull white with thick
east Asia and Indonesia to Bali. It is black streaks. The Javan race M. h. rosea
widespread and abundant throughout has much of the head red, bordered with
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Baluran. This species eats a wide variety of black and connecting to black marking
fruits, including those in plantations, as down cheek.
well as insects. In Baluran, nests are Voice: Monotonous "tuk, tuk, tuk ..."
sometimes excavated in fruiting trees, repeated about 110 times per minute with
which provide a source of food for the a constant tempo
fledglings. The entrance hole to such nests
Length: 18 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: - HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Length: 15 cm
Abundance: Rather Rare Status: Least Concern
Seasonality: Resident National Law: -
Sociality: Solitary Abundance: Common
Top: Adult Seasonality: Resident
Bottom: Juvenille Sociality: Solitary
 Family Ordo
Piciformes
Picidae
Woodpecker

T his large, familiar family is well-represented in Indonesia Flight

with 25 species, 15 of which occur in Java. Unlike the
related barbets, however, woodpeckers have breached
Wallace's Line, with two endemic species on Sulawesi and one
species extending as far east as Alor, just north of Timor.
Supremely adapted for life on vertical tree trunks, they are Direct and
equipped with two dexterous hind toes (zygodactyl characteristically
arrangement) and stiffened tail feathers that are used as undulating,
stabilizing props when climbing, and a thick-walled skull built alternating between
to withstand the shock of drilling into hard wood when short pulses of fast
foraging or excavating nest holes. Moreover their tongues are flapping and slowly
extremely long, and in some species, tipped with barbs and descending glides. Picus puniceus
sticky from salivary secretions, features designed to access
Crimson-winged Woodpecker
152

153
and extract unsuspecting wood-boring insect larvae from their
homes or sweep up large numbers of ants. In addition to its
important role as an excavating tool for feeding and nest- Pelatuk Sayap-merah
construction, the powerful chisel-tipped bill is used as a drum
beater on wood to advertise territorial boundaries and attract Although the distribution of the Crimson- or close observations. Males drum rapidly
mates. Baluran hosts eight species. winged Woodpecker extends from the on dead trees or branches, and
Thai-Malay Peninsula, through Sumatra encounters with females apparently
and Borneo to Java, it is curiously absent involve crest-raising and body-swinging.
from Bali. Despite being at its easternmost Identification: olive green face and body
Estimate their size 4 limits, however, this is the easiest to find with red wings, blackish tail and whitish
5
of the seven woodpecker species in barring on flanks. Red crown and crest,
Baluran. It occurs in all available forest yellow hind-neck, brownish throat and
1
2
3
8 types, and is often spotted along the pale eye ring. Short red moustachial
Batangan-Bekol Road, usually as it glides (malar) streak in male, absent in female.
6 7
from the one tree to the next, landing Voice: Shrill “tuik” or “sheok” uttered
halfway up the trunk, or rarely the base. once or as a series descending slightly in
There it starts its steady ascent, rarely pitch (Holmes and Nash 1989; MacKinnon
spending much time in any one spot, et al. 1998).
Length: 26 cm tapping, probing and flaking the bark, or
1. Black-banded Barbet 5. White-bellied Woodpecker
Status: Least Concern hammering in short bursts, and gleaning HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION

2. Crimson-winged Woodpecker
3. Common Goldenback
4. Great Slaty Woodpecker
6. Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker
7. Sunda Pygmy Woodpecker
8. Greater Goldenback
National Law: -
Abundance: Rather rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, but pairs in
breeding season
ants as it searches for other insect prey.
This species appears to be less nervous of
humans than other woodpecker species,
making it an easy target for photography

Dinopium javanense
Common Goldenback
Pelatuk Besi
With six races or subspecies the
Common Goldenback varies substantially
154
in appearance over its extensive range,
stretching from India to the Philippines
and Bali. Baluran birds belong to the race
D. j. exsul which occupies East Java and
Bali, whereas West Javan populations
belong to the same race (D. j. javanense)
as that found in Sumatra, Borneo and
even the Thai-Malaya Peninsula. In
Baluran, this species is shy and
uncommon, and has been observed only
a few times in the monsoon forest
bordering with coastal forest and
savanna. It tends to forage lower than
most other local woodpeckers, climbing
quickly while it gleans ants and probes
for other insects on the bark surface.
Identification: Obvious features are
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Length: 30 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Resident
Great Slaty Woodpecker
Sociality: Solitary or in pairs
golden-olive mantle, red rump, and black
and white-striped head and neck. Crown
and crest is red in male, black with white
streaks in female. The white underparts of
the local race (exsul) are strongly albeit
irregularly barred black, rather than scaled
or 'scalloped' (as seen in javanense);
female has narrow orange to red band on
nape (Handbook Of The Birds Of The
World). Unusual in having only three toes.
The very similar Greater Goldenback
(Chrysocolaptes lucidus), also found in
Baluran, differs from the Common
Goldenback in having two thin black lines,
instead of one thick 'moustache', running
from the bill to the neck; whitish rather
than reddish eyes; white patches on the
hind-neck (vs entirely black), and like most
woodpeckers, four toes. See also
comments under Greater Goldenback.
Voice: Loud rather metallic “hiek-hiek-
hiek” when flying, but also said to give
piercing, even-paced and even-toned rapid
trills or chur “kikikikiki….” lasting up to 4
seconds (Wells 1999). The drum is short,
fast, and relatively low-pitched.
Mulleripicus pulverulentus
Pelatuk Kelabu-besar
The uncontested giant of Asian
woodpeckers, the Great Slaty
Woodpecker has a reputation as a noisy
social bird. Occurring patchily from India
to Java, this species is absent from Bali,
and in Baluran, on the eastern edge of
its global range, it has been recorded
only from the coastal forest in Gatel and
Bama. This species climbs rather slowly,
gleaning many ants as it goes, but
pausing frequently to examine crevices
in the bark for other larger prey. It often
flies long distances between trees, and
forages at all levels in tall trees, even
155
visiting the ground more than
occasionally.
Identification: Entirely grey, except for
yellow throat and a red stain on the
cheek in the, which is absent in the
female (photographed).
Voice: Loud braying or whinnying "woik
woik woik" or “yoik-hoi-hoi-hoi-hoi”,
with an even or falling pitch (Wells
1999).
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Length: 50 cm
Status: Vulnerable
National Law: -
Abundance: Very Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs or small family groups
 Dryocopus javensis Dendrocopos macei

White-bellied Woodpecker Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker

Pelatuk Ayam Caladi Ulam
Length: 18 cm
Status: Least Concern
Another impressively large woodpecker hour at a single feeding site, sometimes National Law: -
with a wide but patchy distribution, leaving large pits up to 20 cm long, plus a Abundance: Very Common
stretching from India and Japan through tell-tale carpet of large chips on the Seasonality: Resident
Southeast Asia to Bali, the White-bellied ground beneath. Sociality: Solitary, or in pairs
Woodpecker is reputed to have a Identification: Unmistakable.
preference for dead trees or the dead Predominantly black with whitish belly.
parts of living trees. In Baluran it is most Male has red crown, crest and malar
frequently observed in coastal forests, and (moustachial) stripe, whereas female has
is quite likely to be encountered around black fore-crown and malar stripe.
Bama beach, south to Sumber Batu or Voice: Characteristic, loud, explosive yelp The Javan-Balinese
north to Kajang. These handsome birds with rising inflection: “keerrr” (or “kiau”); race of this widely
are known to eat ants, termites, beetles also a noisy rattling “kek-ek-ek” (or “kiau- but patchily-
and various insect larvae, which are kiau-kiau….” in flight. Loud drumming distributed
gleaned from bark or excavated from audible from a long distance, accelerating woodpecker, is so
rotten wood. They can spend up to an over towards end. distinct from the Indian

157
Length: 42 cm HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
and other races that it has
156

Status: Least Concern recently been considered by

National Law: - some as representing a separate
Abundance: Rare species, 'Spot-breasted Woodpecker'.
Seasonality: Resident Curiously absent from the Thai-Malay
Sociality: Solitary, or in pairs during breeding season
Peninsula, Sumatra and Borneo, the local
form is common and quite at home in open
habitats, such as secondary forest and
suburban gardens. In Baluran it is found almost in
entire the park. It forages at all levels of the tree,
from the trunk to the smallest twigs among the foliage
of the canopy, eating ants and a variety of other insects, as
well as fruits on occasion.
Identification: Predominantly black upperparts, barred white.
Whitish head with buff-brown ear-coverts, black hind-neck and
malar stripe, continuing to side-neck. Underparts mostly white, with
black spots on yellow-buff tinged breast and pale pink vent. Crown
red in male, black in female.
Voice: A relatively soft
“krikk-krikk” given
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
twice, or as a fast
metallic trill of many
notes. Drums in weak,
short rolls.
 Dendrocopos moluccensis

Pelatuk Tunggir-emas
Chrysocolaptes lucidus

Greater Goldenback
Sunda Pygmy Woodpecker
Caladi Tilik

Also known as the Brown-capped
Woodpecker, this diminutive species is the
only one of its family to have crossed
Wallace's Line, extending as far east as the
island of Alor, north of Timor. This species
occurs in all types of forests, as well as the
wooded fringes of the savanna, except
mangroves, but is easiest to find in the
coastal forest around Block Perengan,
Block Bekol, Savanna Bama, Alas Malang
and Balanan. Climbing slowly over small
branches and twigs, often high up in trees,
it is less conspicuous than other
woodpeckers, and occasionally takes
nectar and fruit, as well as a variety of
insects gleaned off the surface or under
158
crown, thick eyestripe and malar stripe.
Underparts white streaked blackish. Tiny
red mark above ear-coverts of male rarely
visible. Smaller than Fulvous-breasted
Woodpecker, which lacks blackish eye-
stripe, and has less marked underparts.
Voice: Rapid series of weak, high-pitched
notes: “kikikikikiki…” lasting 1-2 seconds
(Coates and Bishop 1997; Wells 1999).
Also very rapid short drum (20 beats per
second), repeated up to 7 times per
minute (Wells 1999; Handbook Of The
Birds Of The World). Patchily-distributed from India to Bali, this species is rarely
observed in Baluran, probably due to a small population. It visits
almost every type of habitat, except savanna, but is most easily
observed in the monsoon forest during the dry season. In contrast

159
flakes of bark. to the previous species, this much medium-sized woodpecker
Identification: Upperparts prefers the trunks and larger branches of tall trees, where it hunts
blackish-brown barred for large caterpillars and other wood-boring larvae, mostly
with white; white obtained by vigorous hammering and probing, and often removing
head with large chunks of bark or wood in the process. It may fly long
blackish distances between trees, and once landing, climbs rapidly without
gleaning.
Identification: Similar to Common Goldenback (cf. Common
Goldenback page), but the hind-neck has white patches, the eyes
are pale, and there are two thin black lines (vs one) extending from
the bill which merge beyond the cheeks before the neck. It also has
four toes, like most woodpeckers (Common Goldenback has only
three). Moreover, the East Javan and Bali race of the Greater
DISTRIBUTION Goldenback (C. l. strictus) has the white area of the head and
breast tinged buff, and the female has a distinctive golden-yellow
crown and crest.
Voice: A rapid series of harsh, cackling, staccato notes: "hyek-hyek-
hyek-hyek", but known to vary greatly in pitch and speed.
Length: 13 cm
Status: Least Concern HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Length: 30 cm
National Law: - Status: Least Concern
Abundance: Common National Law: -
Seasonality: Resident Abundance: Rare
Sociality: Solitary or in Seasonality: Resident
pairs Sociality: Pairs
 Family Ordo Length: 18 cm
Status: Least Concern
Passeriformes
Hirundinidae
National Law: -
Abundance: Very Common
Seasonality: Migrant during
Swallows the wet season
Sociality: Flocks

F amiliar to people around the world, swallows are

most widely known for their elegance in the air
and their use of manmade buildings for nests
(e.g. Barn Swallow, House Martin). Feeding on aerial
insects, they share the same foraging niche as swifts
Flight

Graceful and very agile;

sweeping and twisting as
Hirund
Barn Sw
o rustica

allow
and swiftlets, though typically at lower levels in the air they chase their prey in the
air or pluck it from the still Layangla
column. Whereas the latter flutter, soar and dash yang A
purposefully on long sickle-like wings, swallows water surface. si a
seemingly dance in the air, banking and turning
sharply on relatively short, rather triangular-shaped
wings. Swallows belong to the Passeriformes, an order to which roughly half of
the world's bird species belong, and like other members of this group (the
passerines) have four toes, three pointing forward and one backward, which are
used to perch on many substrates, including telephone or electric wires and many
160

other artificial structures. Swallows also possess a very short bill, short legs, small
feet and in many species, a long, forked tail. Gregarious by nature, they often
breed in small colonies. Four species can be found in Java, of which three are
commonly found at Baluran. The Barn Swallow is one of the few
species of cosmopolitan passerines,
breeding in the temperate zone of the
Estimate their size Northern Hemisphere during summer,
and migrating south in the boreal winter
1 2 3 4
to South America, East Africa and South-
east Asia. These long-distance migrants
arrive in Java in large numbers during
January-March, stay for the wet season
DISTRIBUTION and depart in April, with very few
individuals lingering through the year.
The source of these visitors is probably
northern Asia, as birds banded (leg-
ringed) in Malaysia were recovered in
north-east China, Japan, Korea and
northern Vietnam. In many Indonesian
towns, these birds congregate at night
HABITAT USE into large communal roosts, consisting of
hundreds, if not thousands, of birds, lined
1. Pacific Swallow
2. Barn Swallow up along the wires. This species is the
3. Striated Swallow most common swallow species in
4. Grey-rumped Treeswift Baluran, and groups can often be seen
between the Bekol savanna to Bama
Beach. When not chasing insects, mostly
161
ants and wasps, in the air, these birds can
usually be found perched on bare
branches, but they have also been seen
resting, and possibly, dust-bathing on the
ground.
Identification: Upperparts are glossy
blue-black, and underparts are white,
except for dark chestnut forehead,
cheeks and throat, latter bordered below
by a blue-black band. Adults usually have
elongated outer tail feathers (streamers)
on arrival, but these are moulted (shed)
during their stay. Immature birds also lack
tail streamers, and have duller
upperparts and a less distinct, often
broken, chest band. Such birds are
difficult to distinguish from the resident
Pacific Swallow, but the latter has a
'dirtier' belly and lacks any black on the
chest.
Voice: Generally quiet, but occasionally a
soft high-pitched twitter "twit"
(MacKinnon and Phillipps 1993).
 a
itic
tah
H i r un
do
l lo w
S w a
a c iafyaincg Batu
PLayangl

This aerial insectivore is found from Sri Lanka and Myanmar through
the Thai-Malay Peninsula and the whole of Indonesia to New Guinea.
Although common in most open habitats, such as paddyfields,
grasslands and urban areas, it is mainly associated with water,
including coastal wetlands, rivers and lakes, and often builds its nests
162
This large species has a global distribution similar to
that of the Pacific Swallow, but is generally less
abundant. It is both the largest and rarest of the
three swallows found in Baluran, being found mostly
in the northwest and southern parts of the park, DISTRIBUTION

163
on manmade structures, such as bridges or jetties over water. The where it often associated with park buildings. Its
Pacific Swallow is the smallest of the swallows in Baluran, where it
flight is slower than that of the other two species,
is as widespread but less abundant than the Barn Swallow during
the wet season. The species is known to feed mainly on flying ants, DISTRIBUTION and it often forages much higher in the air. Unlike
wasps, and flies, mostly caught in the air, but sometimes from the many other swallows, this species builds an enclosed
surface of water. Although it sometimes gathers in small flocks bulb-shaped nest, with a long entrance tunnel,
when foraging, it does not form large roosting congregations. composed of mud pellets, and plastered onto the HABITAT USE
Identification: Similar to Barn Swallow, especially immature, but underside of a ceiling of a cave or, as at Baluran,
smaller, with pale buffy-grey belly (instead of white), more buildings.
extensive chestnut on forehead and below throat, and Identification: Large swallow, with deeply forked tail.
lacking blackish chest bar and tail streamers. When HABITAT USE Glossy blue-black upperparts, except for pale rufous
perched, the wings always look longer than the tail. rump and ear-coverts; underparts whitish with black
Voice: Explosive, high-pitched “pseeep” (Wells 1999) streaks, and undertail coverts black.
or “sweet” (Coates and Bishop 1997, Handbook Of Length: 19 cm
Voice: Rarely heard loud sharp "ciuw-ciuw", or
The Birds Of The World), while song is subdued but Status: Least Concern
cheerful twittering (Hails and Jarvis 1987); vocal in tremulous "shwirrr" in flight. National Law: -
flight. Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident or nomadic
Social: Small flocks
Length: 13 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, pairs or small
flocks
 Family Ordo

Motacillidae
Pipits, Wagtails
Passeriformes

T he pipits and wagtails are small, slender

birds that forage and nest on the ground,
Flight

Paddyfield Pipit
and although found around the world, the
majority of species occurs in Africa and Eurasia.
Whilst the pipits are rather drab in color, being Direct, and characteristically
predominantly brown and streaked, the wagtails undulating or dipping; often
accompanied by sharp calls.
are brightly or contrastingly colored, at least on
their Northern Hemisphere breeding grounds.
Both groups walk with a characteristic gait,
constantly bobbing their heads back and forth and wagging

Anthus rufulus

Apung Tanah
their (typically) long tails up and down, though the latter habit
is more noticeable in the wagtails, as their name indicates.
Both groups also fly with a distinctive undulating motion. The
bill is slender, unlike that of the larks, with which pipits might
164

165
be confused, and the legs are long and slender, usually with an
elongated hind-claw. These birds feed on ground-dwelling
insects, and as with other open country birds, have benefitted
from the clearing of forest, agricultural development, and road
construction. Three wagtail species and one pipit occur in Java.
This species is widespread resident species black, and with buff margins to the wing
Estimate Their Size
of Southeast Asia from India through feathers. Prominent whitish eyebrow
1
Indonesia to Timor. In Baluran, it is easiest extending to nape, and blackish
to find in savanna but also occurs around moustachial streak. Underparts are
1 1 1 fish ponds and on sand dunes. It prefers to yellowish-buff, with white throat and belly,
run for a short distance to escape and blackish streaks across chest.
intruders, rather than fly, and will perch on Voice: sharp, nasal, single or double
the tops of grass stems or shrubs to sing or “chwist” (Handbook Of The Birds Of The
survey its surroundings. World; Mason 1999; Coates and Bishop
Identification: Upperparts brown streaked 1997), and "crit crit crit" while in flight.

HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION

Length: 18 cm
1. Western Yellow Wagtail Status: Least Concern
2. Paddyfield Pipit National Law: -
3. White-shouldered Triller Abundance: Common
4. Collared Island Dove
Seasonality: Resident
Social: Solitary and pairs
 Motacilla flava

Yellow Wagtail
Kicuit Kerbau

After breeding in the marshes and tundra of Siberia during the short
summer, this long-distance traveller migrates to southern Asia and
Indonesia, where it spends its “winter” on ricefields, pastures and
wetlands, mainly in the coastal lowlands. It is a common visitor to the
north coast of Java from September to April, coinciding with the late
dry and wet seasons. In Baluran, Yellow Wagtails are present mainly
from December through February, when they can be seen on the
edges of forest or savanna, around paddies, and fishponds. This
166

species is very variable in plumage, with no fewer than 17 races that

167
breed in different parts of Eurasia. As most birds visiting Baluran are
in non-breeding plumage and moulting, it is difficult to ascertain
which races they represent, and hence, their region of origin.
Identification: Breeding male has olive-green upperparts, yellow
underparts and grey head with white brow and throat. Non-breeding
male head more olive like mantle, more white on throat, paler yellow
below. Female is olive-brown above and pale buffish-yellow below.
Immature birds have brown upperparts and whitish underparts,
except for yellow vent, but when moulting into adult plumage, show
yellow patches on the underparts and some green in the upperparts.
Voice: a shrill “twsee-ep” given in flight.

HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION Length: 18 cm

Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Migrant
Sociality: Solitary
foraging
 Family Ordo
Passeriformes
Campephagidae
Cuckoo-shrikes, Trillers, Minivets, Flycatcher-shrikes, Woodshrike

T his moderately large family is confined to the Flight

Old World, ranging from Africa to the south-
west Pacific, but comprises five quite
distinctive groups of birds. The generally grey
cuckoo-shrikes are by far the largest group,
followed by the very colorful minivets and typically Fast, shallow wingbeats,
black-and-white trillers. The two remaining groups sometimes alternating with
each consist of two species, all restricted to South short glides (undulating),
and Southeast Asia. The name 'cuckoo-shrike' often accompanied by
stems from the superficial resemblance of some calls.
species to cuckoos, with their slender shape, short
legs and mainly grey plumage, as well as to shrikes, with a hooked tip to the
bill. Cuckoo-shrikes also have a characteristic habit of shuffling their wings
168

169
upon alighting, as if the wings do not fold comfortably. All members of this
family eat insects obtained from the forest canopy, but some also take fruit. Left: Male; Right: Female
Many species are social.
Length: 28 cm
Eleven members of this family occur in Java, comprising four species of cuckoo- Coracina javensis Status: Least Concern
shrikes, two trillers, three minivets, one flycatcher-shrike and a woodshrike.
Javan Cuckooshrike National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Estimate their size Kepudangsungu Jawa Sociality: Solitary, pairs

1
2 3
1. Javan Cuckooshrike
2. Pied Triller
3. White-shouldered Triller
4. Small Minivet
Restricted to Java and Bali, this species is nevertheless widespread and common across
most of Java. At Baluran, the species inhabits forest (monsoon forest), forest edge and
5
7
savanna. It appears to prefer tall trees with an open canopy to perch while eating its
4
6 prey, which presumably consists of large insects and their larvae. In the past this
species has been considered as conspecific with the Large Cuckoo-shrike C. macei of
the Thai-Malay Peninsuala and mainland South and Southeast Asia, but males of that
species are generally darker with less white on the belly.
Identification: Large. Grey upperparts and breast, but wing feathers largely black with
whitish edges. Male has black lores,
ear-coverts and chin, and white DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
belly. Female is paler grey overall,
with less black on face and grey
5. Scarlet Minivet
barring on the belly and flanks.
6. Black-winged Flycatchershrike Voice: Loud piercing whistle "pee-
7. Large Woodshrike eeo, pee-eeo”, "tweer" or “twee-
eet", often given in flight.

Lalage nigra
Adult Male
Pied Triller
Kapasan Kemiri
Much smaller than most cuckoo-shrikes
and typically dressed in black and white,
trillers are common birds of anthropogenic
habitats, such as parks, gardens and
170
cultivated land, and secondary forest or
forest edges, but rarely venture into forest,
except mangroves. In addition some
species have a complex, sustained song,
unlike cuckoo-shrikes, although
paradoxically few trillers give a trilling call.
The Pied Triller is found from the Thai-
Malay Peninsula to the Philippines and
East Java, but is absent from Bali. Thus
Baluran is close to the eastern edge of its
range, yet it is distributed widely with in
the park. Feeds on insects, especially
caterpillars, which it snatches from the
outer foliage during short flights or hops,
but it also occasionally hunts on the
ground, gleaning insects from grass.
Identification: Male had black crown, eye-
stripe and mantle; grey rump; and white
underparts, eyebrow and wing bar. Differs
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
from the very similar male White-
shouldered Triller in having thicker
eyebrows which join on the forehead, and
more extensive white on the wing,
including the greater wing coverts, and
edges of inner flight feathers
(secondaries). Female has black parts of
male replaced by brownish-grey, white
edges to wing-coverts, and dirtier grey-
washed underparts with faint darker
barring. Female White-shouldered Triller
differs in having browner plumage overall,
and rufous-buff (rather than white) edging
to wing-coverts. However these two
species may hybridize in Baluran.
Voice: Song is a rattling, descending "tre-
tre-tre-tre" or “wheek-chechechecheche-
chuk” (Wells 2007). Also various nasal
chuckles “Chaka-chevu” (Wells 2007).
Heard more often during breeding season.
Reputed to have a softer, sweeter song
than the Pied Triller.
Length: 16 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, in pairs or small groups
Adult Male
White-shouldered Triller
This species has a more restricted range
than the Pied Triller, occurring from East
Java and Bali through the Lesser Sundas to
Timor, and in Sulawesi. Baluran is close to
the western limits of this species' range,
and though it has wide distribution, it is
less common in the park than the Pied
Triller. The White-shoulder Triller was
formerly treated as conspecific with the
White-winged Triller L. tricolor of
Australia, but the male of the latter
completely lacks a white eyebrow, and has
a distinctive non-breeding (eclipse)
plumage. Habits are similar to the Pied
Triller, although the latter reputedly
prefers moister habitats.
Identification: Male: similar to Pied Triller
HABITAT USE
Length: 17 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rather Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary or in pairs
Adult Female
Lalage sueurii
Kapasan Sayap-putih
171
from which it differs in having a thin (v
thick) white eyebrow; white lesser and
median wing-coverts (appearing as a large
shoulder patch); black greater coverts,
edged white; and less white edging on
black secondaries. Female: black parts
replaced with warm brown; eyebrow and
edges of wing coverts rufous-buff;
underparts buffy-white with indistinct
darker barring. See also Pied Triller.
However these two species may hybridize
in Baluran.
Voice: Harsh rattling series of rapid,
staccato notes that are almost joined;
song, often given in flight, “cree wuij wuij
wuij wuij”.
DISTRIBUTION
 Pericrocotus flammeus

Scarlet Minivet
Sepah Hutan

Adult Female The Scarlet Minivet is widely-distributed from

India through South-east Asia and the Greater
Adult Male Sundas not only to Bali, but as far as Lombok,
across Wallace's Line. Widespread across
Baluran, this species seems to prefer forest
with a dense canopy, where it frequently joins
mixed-species feeding flocks. Caterpillars,
grasshoppers and cicadas, among other
insects, are eaten. During courtship male
Length: 15 cm Adult Male
Scarlet Minivets have been observed to
Status: Least Concern repeatedly chase females high into the air
Pericrocotus cinnamomeus National Law: -
then seize their tails, whereupon both
Abundance: Common

Small
Sepah Kecil
Minivet Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Flocks
spiral down, the male releasing the
female before perching again.
Cooperative breeding (or helping at
the nest by non-breeders) may also
occur in this, and other, minivet
The diminutive minivets are so distinctive forest and woodlands, as well as
172

173
species, as a group of 10 individuals, including
that it is hard to see any similarities with cultivated lands and plantations. Thus it immature birds, was once observed building a
other members of the cuckoo-shrike occurs from India to Thailand, then Java nest collectively, taking it in turns to add
family. In contrast to the sombre tones of and Bali, missing Peninsular Malaya and material.
most cuckoo-shrikes, the gaudy minivets Sumatra. In Baluran it is most easily seen Identification: Male: head, including throat,
are clad in red (males) or yellow on the edges of the savanna and in Adult Female
mantle and much of wing glossy black, with
(females), and boast a long, graduated monsoon forest. orange-red rump, outertail feathers and wing
tail, feeble legs and a relatively tiny bill. Identification: Male: Head and mantle patches. Orange-red chest and undertail.
More like flycatchers in their foraging blackish-grey, with bright orange rump. Female: Red areas of male replaced with
behavior, these birds typically perch bolt Chest bright orange, shading to yellow on yellow, but extending to throat, cheeks, ear-
upright on bare twigs for short periods in belly. Also orange-yellow patches in wing coverts and forehead; crown and mantle grey,
the canopy before launching out to snatch and outer tail-feathers. Female: Grey and rump olive-green.
insects from foliage or sallying after upperparts and white underparts, except Voice: Very vocal. High-pitched, piercing
flushed insects. They are highly for yellowish vent and orange undertail; whistle "tsweep-twseep” or “sweep-sweep-
gregarious, forming flocks of up to 30 rump and wing patches yellower than in sweep-sweep”.
birds, and also frequently join mixed- male.
species feeding flocks. Constantly on the Voice: Vocal, high-pitched, drawn-out,
move, the members of the flock follow oft-repeated whistle: " tsyee-tsyee-tsyee-
each other one by one as they flutter and tsyee".
bounce from one tree top to the next.
They also have impressive courtship HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION Length: 19 cm
flights and displays, soaring up an then Status: Least concern
spiralling down on outstretched wings. National Law: -
Unlike most minivets, the Small Abundance: Rather Rare
Minivet prefers drier, more open Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Groups, often in mixed-species
flocks
 Length: 15 cm Length: 18 cm
Status: Least Concern Status: Least concern
National Law: - National Law: -
174

175
Abundance: Very common Abundance: Very rare Tephrodornis virgatus
Seasonality: Resident Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Small groups,
sometimes in mixed flocks
Sociality: Small groups, often
in mixed-species flocks
Large Woodshrike
Jingjing Petulak
Hemipus hirundinaceus

Black-winged Flycatchershrike Larger than the Black-winged Flycatcher-

shrike, but similar in shape, colour and
where it can be found only in the crater of
Mount Baluran. Active throughout the day,
Jingjing Batu behavior, this species is no longer it hawks for flying insects from exposed
considered to belong to the cuckoo-shrike perches, somewhat like a drongo, then
As its English name implies this bird with white rump and fringes of outer tail family, as molecular studies show that it is moves swiftly among the tree crowns,
resembles flycatchers in its foraging feathers; white underparts extending more closely related to the African invariably in small, noisy groups.
behavior, as it perches for long periods in the across cheeks to side-neck, with grey helmet-shrikes (Prionopidae) and Sundaic Identification: Thickset bird with heavy,
canopy, scrutinising the surrounding foliage smudge on chest. Female: similar but Philentomas (formerly considered hook-tipped bill. Male: grey upperparts
for small insects, or awaiting a passing, flying black parts replaced with sooty-brown. monarchs). Found from India through with white rump and blackish tail;
meal. Prey are snatched from the underside Voice: Subdued, high-pitched "tit-chwet- Indo-China to Java, the Large Wood-shrike underparts, including cheeks, white, with
of canopy leaves while hovering, or from the was thought to be absent from Bali until grey wash over breast; distinctive broad
chwet-chwet" or "tweet tweet cheetee",
air during short sallies, before the bird 1999, when it was discovered on the black mask continuing through yellow eye
returns to its perch. It has a classic Sundaic repeated.
slopes of an isolated mountain. As in Bali, to nape. Female: duller, with grey parts
distribution, occurring from the Thai-Malay this species is very localized in Baluran, washed brown, and mask blackish-brown.
Peninsula to Bali. One of the Voice: Vocal. Loud, harsh calls,
commonest birds in the park. It is HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION

sometimes found attending mixed-

including insistent “troitroitroitroi…”
species feeding flocks in the monsoon or piping “pwee-pwee-pwee-pwee…”
forest, and savanna edge. It spends plus harsh scolding “chreek chreek
long periods sitting still in the canopy, chreek”.
Identification: Black upperparts,
 Estimate their size
1 2 3
1. Black-winged Flycatchershrike
2. Common Iora
3. Lemon-bellied White-eye

This species has proved to be the most adaptable birds of

Southeast Asia, being common in city parks, suburban
gardens and cultivated land, as well as mangroves and
lightly wooded habitats from India to Bali. Found through

Common Iora
Baluran, its characteristic calls can be heard through
much of the day. It is usually seen amongst foliage at the
tips of branches, where it often peers under leaves or
probes clusters of dead leaves, and frequently joins mixed
species feeding flocks.
Family Ordo Identification: Dull yellowish-green upperparts, and
Passeriformes
Aegithinidae yellow underparts and face. The wings are mainly black
176

177
with two obvious white bars. The white iris is
conspicuous. Unlike other races of this species, local race

Aegithina tiphia
Ioras A. t. scapularis the males never develop black plumage

Cipoh Kacat
and the sexes are virtually indistinguishable.
Voice: Distinctive. Varied, but most frequent calls are a

T his small family of just four species is Flight drawn-out, mournful, monotonal whistle or trill, ending
sometimes combined with the slightly larger abruptly with a lower note: “tweeeeeee-tyu”, and clear
family of leafbirds (Chloropseidae). Both single notes “cheepow” or “weet-we-to”, often repeated.
families are confined to the Oriental region
and consist of small, predominantly green and/or Finch like, undulating. Fast DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
yellow, sexually-dimorphic, foliage-dwellers with wingbeats followed by long
sturdy legs and slender, slightly decurved bills. Whilst glides.
leafbirds often feed on fruit and sometimes even
nectar, however, ioras are strictly insectivorous. One unusual characteristic of ioras,
especially males, is the soft, long white plumes of the flanks, which partly cover the
rump when these birds fly. These flank plumes are raised during courtship displays, Length: 14 cm
when the male also leans forward, drooping his wings and spreading his tail. Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Another dramatic display, observed in India, but not yet in South-east Asia, involves Abundance: Very Common
the male leaping upwards for a metre or more, fluffing its body plumage into a Seasonality: Resident
“ball”, then parachuting or spiralling slowly down to land close to the female, to be Sociality: Solitary or in pairs
followed by the aforementioned, normal display, and the whole process repeated.
Voicefull and active throughout the day. Of the four species, only two occur in
Indonesia, and only one in Java and Bali.
 Chloropsis cochinchinensis
Family Ordo

Chloropseidae
Passeriformes Blue-winged Leafbird
Cicadaun Sayap-biru
Leafbirds

L
ike the ioras, leafbirds are restricted to the
Oriental Region, including India, Indo-China
and the Greater Sundas. East Java was
thought to represent the eastern distributional
limit of this family, but there have been several
recent sightings of one species in Bali. True to
their name, leafbirds are invariably found
amongst foliage and their predominantly green
plumage provides a very effective camouflage.
Leafbirds are omnivorous, taking both insects
and fruit, as well as nectar. Some larger species
have a small hook (or nail) that projects beyond
the closed bill, which maybe useful in capturing
178
Occurring widely from Myanmar through
Flight Southeast Asia to Java, this species is quite
tolerant of forest disturbance, commonly
occupying secondary forest and the edge
of clearings. As with other leafbird species,
Direct. Deep and fast
wingbeats. it eats both insects and berries of many
plant species, including figs. Javanese
people call this species “Cucak Ijo” (Ijo
means green which dominated colour of
this bird), and many breeders and singing
contest hobbyists believe that Baluran
birds have the best quality voice.
Consequently it is regularly trapped for the
pet trade, and sadly, it is one of the most
frequently birds poached from Baluran.
Once easily found in Bama Block, these
birds now appear to be confined to the
crater of Mount Baluran, possibly due to
the effect of poaching.
Identification: Grass green body, with
largely turquoise-blue wing and tail. Male:
black lores and throat, surrounded by
yellow, broadening into large orange-
yellow patch on breast; Female: lacks black
mask and throat, replaced by turquoise-
green. Both sexes have thin purple-blue
cheek stripe.
Voice: contact call rather chicken-like
"cwip-cwuip", song: clear "cii-ciuiitt"
repeated.

large crickets and mantids; smaller species

179
without this hook mainly eat larvae and spiders,
and moths are sometimes pursued in short
aerial sallies. Small fruits are eaten whole, but
medium-sized fruits are first pierced by the
lower mandible, then squeezed in the bill until
the contents burst from the tough skin, which is
discarded.
Though not as vocal as ioras, leafbirds have
melodious songs, making them popular as cage
birds in the region. Unusual for passerines, both
sexes sing, and at least some species are
DISTRIBUTION
accomplished mimics, copying the calls of
spiderhunters and bulbuls. Two species occur in
Java, and both are found in Baluran.

Length: 17 cm
Status: Least concern HABITAT USE
National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, or in pairs.
Frequently in mixed-species flocks
 Family Ordo Length: 18 cm

Passeriformes Status: Least Concern

Pycnonotidae National Law: -

Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs, small flocks,
Bulbuls In sometimes in mixed flocks

Pycnon
otus
Ruby-t disp
T his large family of relatively fearless, noisy and
gregarious birds ranges from Africa through
India to Japan and South-east Asia. Although
several adaptable species have been introduced
to islands east of Bali, only one occurs naturally east
Flight

Direct, straight, shallow

hro r
Cuc
ak K
a
ated
Bulb
of Wallace's Line. Bulbuls are characterized by short,
rounded wings; a long tail; and a slender, slightly
wingbeats. unin
g ul
Endemic
decurved bill with well-developed rictal bristles and, to Sumatra, Java
in some species, a hooked tip. Their plumage is soft, and some species sport a distinct and Bali, the Ruby-
crest. Many species have an inconspicuous patch of hair-like feathers (filoplumes) throated Bulbul was, for many
projecting from the nape, though their function is unknown. Fruit is a major years, treated as a race of the Black-
component of the diet of most species, though insects and nectar are also eaten. Most
crested Bulbul (Pycnonotus melanicterus).
bulbuls are social to some degree, and flock members often synchronize their resting
However the latter species has a black crest and
180

181
and preening behaviour. Likewise, pair members often preen at the same time, side-by-
white eyes, and in most cases a black throat contrasting
side, although they are not known to preen each other. Whilst most bulbuls produce
simple, monotonous, and in some cases rather unpleasant raspy calls, several Asian with an olive chest, while the Ruby-throated Bulbul has
species have powerful and melodious songs, and as a result, are popular cagebirds. The almost no crest, red eyes and as its name implies, a red
Straw-necked Bulbul Pycnonotus zeylanicus, in particular, was so mercilessly trapped throat which merges into orange on the chest. The Black-
for the cage bird industry throughout South-east Asia that it has disappeared from crested Bulbul is now considered as a species (P. flaviventris)
some parts of its range, including Java, and declining drastically in others. Twelve of mainland South-east Asia and eastern India, while the
species occur in Java, of which seven can be found in Baluran. yellow-throated Bornean Bulbul (P. montis) is now treated as
an endemic of Borneo.
At Baluran the Ruby-throated Bulbul is a shy species of
Estimate their size evergreen forest, found only in Mount Baluran crater, Block
7 DISTRIBUTION Perengan and along Bajulmati river forest. It feeds mostly on
1 2 3 4 5 6 berries and other fruit, procured from the forest canopy, but
also chases insects.
Identification: Olive-green
upperparts with black
hood. Underparts grading
from red on throat
HABITAT USE through orange on chest to
yellow belly.
Voice: Heard through much of
the day. Loud "hee-tee-hee-tee-
weet" the last note falling in
1. Black-crested Bulbul 5. Cream-vented Bulbul
2. Sooty-headed Bulbul 6. Grey-cheeked Bulbul
pitch.
3. Yellow-vented Bulbul 7. Long-talied Shrike
4. Olive-winged Bulbul
 Pycnonotus aurigaster
Sooty-headed Bulbul
Cucak Kutilang
Though now found throughout much of
Indonesia, this species was originally
confined to open habitats in mainland
South-east Asia, and Java, but like the
Green Peafowl, absent from the
intervening region, including Peninsular
Malaysia, presumably due to the
preponderance of rainforest. In recent
times, however, it has been introduced by
humans to Bali, Singapore, Sumatra,
Borneo and Sulawesi, and it is still
expanding its range eastwards. As this
species is a very popular cage bird, there
can be little doubt that this range
expansion is largely due to the deliberate
or accidental release of captive birds,
facilitated by its predilection for manmade
182
or recently disturbed environments. In
Baluran the Sooty-headed Bulbul is
HABITAT USE
DISTRIBUTION
widespread and still very common,
especially in savanna and the edge of
monsoon forests, though not as numerous
as the Yellow-vented Bulbul. Garrulous and
boisterous, it is active throughout the day,
and occupies almost all niches, from the
ground to the tops of tall trees.
Identification: Greyish-brown mantle,
white rump and sooty-black tail tipped
white, obvious in flight. Black face, and
crown, with short crest on nape,
contrasting with white ear-coverts and
pale collar. Underparts white to pale grey,
except for blackish upper throat and
orange-yellow vent.
Voice: Noisy. Loud but quite melodious
and “cheerful” whistle "chook-chook" and
"chang-koor", quickly repeated.
Length: 20 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Small flocks, sometimes
in mixed-species flocks
Pycnonotus goiavier
Yellow-vented Bulbul
Merbah Cerukcuk
This species is almost certainly the commonest
bird in Baluran, occurring right across the
park, and occupying all habitat
types at all elevations. The Yellow-
vented Bubul is a supreme
generalist, with a very broad
foraging niche throughout its
range, which extends from
southern Indo-China and
Philippines down through the
Greater Sundas to Lombok.
Whether it crossed
Wallace's Line from Bali to
Lombok unaided is
uncertain, though it seems unlikely
183
given that to the north, South Sulawesi
populations were introduced in the late 1970s.
Although the diet is primarily berries and other
fruits, it also eats seeds and drinks nectar, as well as
consuming large quantities of invertebrates, gleaned
or snatched from foliage, bark or the ground. Active
DISTRIBUTION
throughout the day. Banding studies elsewhere
suggest that individuals are actually highly nomadic
rather than sedentary. The Indonesian name of
“Cerukcuk” describes one of their common calls, and
these birds are still illegally hunted, sometimes in their
hundreds, for the cage bird trade.
HABITAT USE
Identification: Upperparts brown, with dark brown
crown including a short, erectile crest at rear. Broad
white eyebrow and inner ear coverts, contrasting with
black lores, eye-stripe and narrow eyering. Underparts
white, except for yellow vent, and some faint brown
streaking on the flanks and breast.
Voice: Cheerful, gurgling "crook crook crook" or
Length: 20 cm “trikutruk- trikutruk-trikutruk” or “key-diddle-diddle-
Status: Least Concern doo”, repeated.
National Law: -
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Usually in small flocks

Pycnonotus plumosus
Olive-winged Bulbul
Merbah Belukar
This bird is commoner in West and Central
Java than in the east, absent from Bali, it’s as
its eastern limits in Baluran. In contrast to
many other species of bulbuls, it is a rather
shy and quiet bird, and not particularly
social. In other parts of its range, this
species inhabits forest edge, mangroves,
scrub and plantations, but in Baluran it is
mainly encountered in coastal forest in
Bama and Perengan Block, also along
Bajulmati River forest where it usually stays
below the canopy, often in shrubs.
Identification: Upperparts olive-brown with
green tinge, and yellowish-green edges to
flight feathers. Underparts paler and
creamier, with whitish throat, tawny flanks
and buff-brown vent.
184
Voice: Fairly quiet. Soft calls "chrek chrek"
heard more than song which is described as
“quick doc-tor quick”.
Alophoixus bres
Grey-cheeked Bulbul
Empuloh Janggut
One of a group of large bulbuls with
permanently erected crests and throat
feathers that are usually puffed out. With
their powerful bills, these birds prey on a
variety of insects from beetles to
dragonflies, but also eat fruits from a range
of middle and lower-storey plants. In
Baluran, however, the Grey-cheeked Bulbul
is rare and apparently restricted to the
forest around the crater of Mount Baluran
and along the Bajulmati River. Their small
population and limited distribution is
possibly due to over-harvesting by
poachers, as this bird is widely sought as a
Length: 20 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rather rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Small flocks
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
cage bird due to its melodious voice.
Identification: Easily recognizable by its
bright yellow belly, erectile crest on hind-
crown, and white “beard” of fluffed-out
throat feathers. Upperparts and chest are
olive-brown, more rufous on crown; the
face is grey, tail chestnut-brown, and iris
reddish.
Voice: Rippling, rather mournful, whistle
“cheeru cheeu cheeriu” (Wells 2007;
Handbook Of The Birds Of The World)and
harsh ringing: "triu-tiu-tiu-tiu-tiu-tiu-tiu-
tiu-chok-chok".
Length: 17 cm
Status: Least Concern Pycnonotus simplex
National Law: -
Abundance: Rather Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Cream-vented Bulbul
Sociality: Solitary or in pairs. Merbah Corok-corok
The smallest of the bulbuls in Baluran, this
species has an identical geographical range to
the similar-looking Olive-winged Bulbul but it
prefers more forested habitats. In Baluran, it
occurs in monsoon forest, coastal forest and
riverine forest along the Bajulmati River,
avoiding the savannas. Like other bulbuls it
mainly consumes fruit, but also eats insects,
foraging mostly in the middle-storey and
canopy. Solitary or in pairs, but sometimes
joins flocks of other bulbuls at fruiting trees, as
well as flocks of insectivorous species.
Identification: Similar to Olive-winged Bulbul
but smaller, and with white iris (but orange in
juveniles), and creamy-white belly and vent.
Brown upperparts and wings also lack any
green tone.
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION Voice: Emphatic chatter described as “quick-
185
chop” or “cheeriup” (MacKinnon and Phillipps
1993; Hails and Jarvis 1987) plus softer,
quavering “thee-thee-thee-thee-thee…”,and
harsh, low “trrr”.
Length: 22 cm Social: Solitary, pairs, or in
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
small groups; frequently in
mixed-species flocks, often
with Blue-winged Leafbird.
Seasonality: Resident
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
 Family Ordo Lanius schach

Laniidae Passeriformes Long-tailed Shrike

Shrikes
A wide-ranging species from Central Asia
Shrikes are the passerine (songbird) equivalent of to New Guinea, this species, like most
raptors, hunting vertebrate animals such as frogs, Flight shrikes, prefers open or dry habitats,
where it can scan the ground for
lizards, mice, small birds and even bats, as well as
potential prey from its low perch. Long-
invertebrate prey. A much smaller family than the tailed Shrikes are known to eat large
Direct, shallow
bulbuls, the shrikes nevertheless have a much wider crickets or grasshoppers and beetles, as
global distribution, being found right across the wingbeats. well as frogs, lizards, and occasionally
Northern Hemisphere, including North America, as birds. When they have a surplus of food,
well as much of Africa. Their short stout bills are equipped with a hooked tip, they may impale their latest victim on a
and a “tomial” tooth on the upper mandible, which resembles that of the thorn, and return to it at a future time.
falcons (Falconidae). Shrikes possess several other features that are This “larder” may function to attract
reminiscent of raptors, including slightly protruding position of the eyes, mates or assist in provisioning young
which facilitates binocular vision, and some hunting techniques. Lacking when nesting. This species is common
talons with which to strike and hold down prey, however, they kill prey with right across Baluran, but is easiest to
their bills rather than their feet, and impale the carcass on a the thorn of a find along the Batangan-Bama-Bekol
186
Bentet Kelabu
their ordinary calls are simple and harsh,
Long-tailed Shrikes are able to mimic the
songs of other birds, and are therefore
popular as cage birds and as contestants
in Javanese songbird contests.
Identification: Reddish-brown back and
rump, with pale grey crown and nape.
Underparts white except for rufous
flanks. Black fore-crown and broad
“mask” around eyes, tail and wings, the
latter with a small white spot, visible in
flight.
Voice: Harsh buzzing "terrr terr terrr"
often when flying from one tree to
another; and a disyllabic “to-wit”. Song
is a soft, rather sweet, but brief warble,

187
shrub or secure it in a crevice before dismembering it. Instantly recognizable road, as it favors monsoon forest and sometimes including mimicry
by their large heads and (usually) black facial mask, these birds spend long savanna. If approached too closely, (MacKinnon et al. 1998; Wells 2007;
periods perched upright on low branches, wires, fence posts or poles from however, it may give harsh scolding calls, Holmes and Nash 1989).
where they can spy and pounce on their prey. Build nests are cup-shaped, accompanied by tail-wagging. Whilst
and built in shrubs and trees.
Of the three species that occur in Java, two are migrants from the Northern
Hemisphere and the remaining one a resident, which is the one occurring in DISTRIBUTION
Baluran.

Juvenile
Estimate their size HABITAT USE
3
2
1

Length: 25 cm
Status: Least Concern
1. Sooty-headed Bulbul National Law: -
2. Long-talied Shrike Abundance: Very common
3. Javan Cuckooshrike
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Copsychus saularis
Family Ordo
Passeriformes Oriental Magpie-Robin
Turdidae
Robins, Thrushes, Forktails
Kucica Kampung

The sweet song of this bold bird can be
With a worldwide distribution and over 300 species, this heard in gardens and villages or lightly
is one of the largest passerine families, with many of the
Flight wooded country from India and South
finest songsters. General characteristics include a China to Bali. But this beautiful voice has
slender, tapered body with a strong, sharp, straight bill, made it a favorite cage bird and a
large eyes, sparse rictal bristles (at the base of the bill), Direct, undulating with common participant in song bird
longish legs with strong toes, and broad, rounded wings. shallow wingbeats. contests, and wild populations have
They share two features with the Old World Flycatchers: declined in some regions. It forages
spotted juvenile plumage, and the “turdine thumb”, a projection of the syrinx (voice- mostly on the ground for invertebrates,
such as insects, spiders and worms, and
box). Most thrushes forage on the ground, running and/or hopping for a short distance,
while doing so, regularly and suddenly
then stopping suddenly, as they search for invertebrates in the soil and litter. However cocks its tail as it alights or stops
many species also take to the trees to harvest berries and other fruit. Nests are solid
hopping, then slowly lowers and fans the
and cup-shaped, and placed low in a tree or on the ground. In Indonesia, the family is tail, before hopping off again, half-
represented by several distinct groups: true thrushes, whistling thrushes, short wings, upright, to repeat the process. In
robins, chats and forktails. The powerful songs of the thrushes, and their ability to Baluran, it is a rare species, being found
188
only along Batangan-Bekol road.
Identification: Male: Black except for
white outer tail feathers and prominent
stripe across wing coverts; female: like
the make but the black is replaced by
dark grey. Note that local birds belong to
the East Javan and Balinese race C. s.
amoenus which lacks white on the belly
and vent.
Voice: Both sexes have powerful,
individually varied songs, described as
sharp warbled phrases interspersed with
down- or up-slurred whistles, e.g. “soo-
et sweet ja-seet” (Wells 2007).

189
mimic, make them a favorite among songbird hobbyists, and they can be found in cages
almost everywhere from Singapore to Bali. Among the most popular pets are the
Orange-headed and Chestnut-capped Thrushes Zoothera citrina and Z. interpres, and
White-rumped Shama Copsychus malabaricus. Songbird contestants, called kicau-
mania, and the keeping and training of these birds, represent a very popular
Indonesian pastime, involving some 70,000 hobbyists and contributing over USD$130 DISTRIBUTION

million to the economies of the six largest cities in Java and Bali alone (Jepson 1997).
On the positive side, the hobby gives birds a prominent place in urban culture, but on
the negative side, it creates a demand for wild-caught birds, which are trapped in their
tens of thousands. Of the 19 species of thrush found in Java, four are found in Baluran.

HABITAT USE
Estimate their size
4
2
1 3

Length: 19 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
1. Oriental Magpie-robin
2. White-crowned Forktail
Abundance: Very rare
3. White-shouldered Triller Seasonality: Resident
4. Spotted Dove Sociality: Solitary or in pairs
 Length: 25 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary

Enicurus leschenaulti

White-crowned Forktail
Meninting Besar

The forktails are the only group of birds that are endemic to the Oriental biogeographic
region, extending from the Himalayas to Bali. They comprise seven species that
characteristically live around fast-flowing streams, and often waterfalls. As the name
190

191
accurately implies, forktails are easily distinguished by having a very long, deeply
forked tail, which is continually flicked open as they forage along the water's edge, and
may help to maintain their balance as they alight abruptly on wet boulders. Unlike
thrushes, their calls are simple piercing whistles, designed to carry above the noise of
gurgling water, and recalling dwarf kingfishers and some species of wagtails
(Motacillidae) which occupy the same streamside niche. Despite their bold pied
plumage, forktails are usually difficult to see as they are very wary of potential
predators and will flush at the slightest disturbance, usually flying along the stream,
close to the water, and with an undulating motion. The White-crowned Forktail is one
of the largest forktails. Like other forktails, it forages chiefly by walking along the river
banks in forest, hopping between damp rocks, where it picks up living and drowned
insects, but occasionally submerging its head to snatch aquatic invertebrates. In
Baluran it may be seen along Bajulmati and Kacip river.
Identification: Black back, breast and head, except for white fore-crown, which can be
raised into a small crest. White belly and rump. Wings black with prominent white bar;
tail black with white outermost feathers and tips to the remainder (giving appearance
of bars when closed).
Voice: Usual call, shrill double whistle "tsee-eet", often calling as it flies.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
 Family Ordo
Passeriformes Pellorneum capistratum
Timaliidae
Babblers, Laughing-thrushes Black-capped Babbler
Pelanduk Topi-hitam

A lmost rivaling the thrushes (Turdidae) in

terms of number of species, the babblers are
a diverse assemblage of birds that vary
widely in size, plumage coloration, foraging
niches, voice and nests, reflected in the larger
Flight
Undulating and finch-like,
number of genera. Yet their global range is much
but usually short distance.
smaller than that of the thrushes, and until recently
thought to be confined to southern Asia and Africa
in the Old World. The one exception is a species found in western USA, which was
formerly thought to be an aberrant tit (Paridae). Despite their heterogeneity in
form and ecology, the majority of babblers are sedentary forest-dwelling
insectivores, and as many species forage on or close to the ground, they typically
have rather drab plumage, thrush-like bills, strong legs and feet, and short rounded
wings with limited flight capabilities. While some species are conspicuous due to
192
Restricted to the Thai-Malay peninsula and Greater Sundas, this species is absent
from Bali, so Baluran is at the eastern limit of its distribution. It forages for
invertebrates in the leaf litter of the forest floor, walking and sometimes running,
then skulking through the undergrowth, staying within a few meters of the ground.
A very shy bird, it is much more often heard than seen. It occurs throughout
Baluran inhabiting monsoon and evergreen forest. Never found in savanna and
mangrove.
Identification: Upperparts olive brown tinged with rufous on wings and tail;
underparts orange-rufous with white throat and malar stripe. Black crown and
nape; orange-rufous eyebrow becoming white at rear; grey lores and eye-stripe
continuing to nape. There is much variation in this species, local birds belonging to
the Javan race P. c. capistratum.
Voice: Rarely heard, loud, clear, high-pitched, 2-note whistle “pi-pee” or “ti-tuu”,
with the second note lower (Holmes and Nash 1989; Collar and Robson 2007).

193
their social and garrulous nature, others are frustratingly elusive, being solitary and
quiet, except at dawn. Of the 19 species of babblers found in Java, five are found in HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION

Baluran, and one of these is endemic to the island.

Estimate their size 4

3

1 2

1. Black-capped Babbler
2. Grey-cheeked Tit-Babbler
3. Chesnut-capped Babbler
4. Yellow-vented Bulbul
5. Long-tailed Shrike
Length: 17 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rather rare.
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, sometimes in
pairs or small groups.
 Macronous flavicollis
Grey-cheeked Tit-Babbler J
Ciungair Jawa
Found only in the lowlands of Java and Kangean Island, this small
194
babbler keeps to dense, tangled vegetation in dry forest, forest edge
and second growth. In Baluran it has so far been found in dense green
forests at Blok Bama and Blok Batuitem (both are coastal forest),
Evergreen forest and along the Bajulmati River. Usually in small active
groups, it forages for insects among shrubs, vine tangles and dead
leaves, mostly in the lower and middle storey, occasionally climbing to
the canopy, but avoiding the forest floor.
Identification: Brown upperparts with olive tinge, and rufous wash on
wings and tail. Fore-crown rufous with indistinct dark streaks. Face grey
(including lores, eye-ring and cheeks). Pale orange throat and breast
fading to white on belly and chin, with fine dark streaks on chin and
throat. Iris cream and bill pinkish.
Voice: Fairly quiet. Male song described as a monotonous series of 4-25
high-pitched notes “chuh-chuh-chuh-chuh-chuh ….”, repeated after a
short pause; female often gives harsh “chuckut” or “chrrrt”
simultaneously (Collar and Robson 2007).
Length: 14 cm HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Small groups
Timalia pileata
Chesnut-capped Babbler
Tepus Gelagah
This is one of about 30 dry forest and grassland species (including the Green Peafowl)
195
in the region that have a disjunct distribution, being found in mainland Southeast Asia
and Java, but missing from the Great Sundas, including Peninsular Malaysia. This
distributional pattern suggests that dry forest and open habitats were once more
widespread, probably during Pleistocene glacial epochs, but have since disappeared
from the wetter parts of Sundaland. In Java, the Chestnut-capped Babbler mostly
inhabits dense grassland and shrubland, skulking in thick undergrowth and keeping
close to the ground. It has mainly been recorded in West Java. A rare bird in Baluran, it
has been observed only twice to date, both times in monsoon forest. Although it has a
loud and melodious voice, it is extremely shy and easily overlooked, so it may be more
abundant than currently evident.
Identification: Brown upperparts with rufous tinge, and tail with indistinct black
barring. Bright chestnut crown contrasts with white forehead and eyebrow. Black lores
and eyering form a “half-mask”. Ear-coverts, cheeks, throat and breast white, with fine
black streaks on latter, and greyish side-neck. Belly pale creamy-buff, browner on
flanks.
Voice: Varied. Song described as a clear whistle with a metallic quality: “wher-wher
witch-it-it”, often given by two or more birds simultaneously; also a loud descending
whinny or trill (Collar and Robson 2007), and disyllabic whistles rising in pitch
(MacKinnon et al. 1998). Calls include sharp metallic or harsh notes “tziit” or “chrrt”.
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Length: 17 cm
Status: LC
National Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs or small groups
 Family Ordo

Sylviidae Passeriformes
Prinias, Tailorbirds, Warblers

T his extremely large Old World family of small, mostly

drab-plumaged birds has recently been split into two
families, one-third of which forms the Cisticolidae,
comprising the cisticolas, prinias and tailorbirds of warmer
regions, while the remaining two-thirds have been
Flight

Fast flapping, straight.

Cisticola juncidis
retained in the more widespread Sylviidae. The vast
majority of cisticolas are found in Africa, with relatively
few in Southeast Asia, whereas prinias are more species in
Deeply undulating in
some species. Zitting Cisticola
Cici Padi
India and Southeast Asia. The tailorbirds, however, are
confined to Southeast Asia. Members of both groups have slender, usually straight, There are more species of cisticolas than in the savanna at Bekol and Alas Malang
pointed bills, longish tails and except in the migratory leaf-warblers and reed- in any other group of Old World Warblers, (Northwest). It prefers shorter grass and
warblers, short and rounded wings. Although the majority of warblers are though the majority is found in Africa. wetter areas than the Golden-headed
understorey birds that skulk about in grasslands, reed-beds and forest undergrowth, They are also notoriously difficult to Cisticola. In aerial displays, the male rises
others actively hunt insects in the forest canopy. As the name “warbler” suggests, identify since they all have very similar very high into the sky in a jerky or
196

many have melodious songs, and in Indonesia, some are even kept as cagebirds for plumage, though their voices are often
their song. Their nests are often placed on or near the ground, and may be bowl or strikingly different. Male cisticolas sing
dome-shaped. Tailorbirds, however, have a unique way of constructing their nests from prominent perches on top of a bush
or tall grass stem before launching into
which involves stitching the edges of a leaf together to form a pouch.
characteristic aerial displays.
Java has 22 species of Sylviids and Cisticolids, of which ten occur in Baluran, mostly
The Zitting Cisticola is the most
belonging to the latter group. widespread member of its family and
indeed, one of the most widespread of all
small passerines, occurring from South
Estimate their size 5 6 Africa to Australia! It is also unusual
within its family in being polygamous,
1
2 3 4
7 8 most males having three or four “wives”,
but some having up to eleven. To attract
mates the male builds up to 20 “courtship”
nests (more usually 5 or 6), consisting of
the outer wall only, and lead a female to
one of them; once accepted, the female
completes the nest, lays the eggs and
1. Black-capped Babbler 5. Yellow-bellied Prinia
2. Zitting Cisticola 6. Plain Prinia
takes responsibility for all incubation and
Length: 10 cm chick-rearing duties. Due to a long
3. Golden-headed Cisticola 7. Common Tailorbird
Status: Least Concern breeding season in some areas, females
4. Bar-winged Prinia 8. Arctic Wabler
National Law: - are able to raise up to three broods,
Abundance: Common usually in different male territories.
Seasonality: Resident In Baluran, this bird is most commonly
Sociality: Solitary, but in pairs or in seen in the paddy fields of Block Gatel
family groups during breeding season and Perengan, although it is also found
197
bouncing motion, and hovers with its tail
fanned while uttering an insect-like ticking
call continuously, before diving headlong
into the grass again.
Identification: Crown and upperparts
brown, boldy streaked black except on
nape and rufous-tinged rump; tail tipped
white; underparts and eyebrow white,
with deep buff on breast and flanks. Non-
breeding plumage duller, and tail longer;
extremely difficult to distinguish from non-
breeding Golden-headed Cisticola.
Voice: During breeding season, male gives
series of short high-pitched single or
double clicking notes, given as ascends
into sky or when circling above territory:
"zit-zit-zit …." (or “tik-tik-tik ….”); also a
steady ticking when perched (Hails and
Jarvis 1987; Coates and Bishop 1997).
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
 Cisticola exilis Prinia flaviventris

Golden-headed Cisticola
Cici Merah
DISTRIBUTION
Not as widespread as the Zitting Cisticola, this species is nevertheless
found from India through Indonesia to Australia. Polygamous, males
attracting up to 14 females, the most successful ones having the
shortest tails. Females raise up to three broods alone, usually sired
by different males. In their aerial displays, the male climbs and spirals
to a great height, circles and sings for up to 5 minutes,
then plummets to the grass. This species prefers drier HABITAT USE
grasslands and paddy fields with taller rice than the
Zitting Cisticola. In Baluran it is found in Gatel block and
Bekol savanna.
198
Yellow-bellied Prinia
Perenjak Rawa
From India to Java, but absent from Bali, this species inhabits
marshes, paddyfields, canals, and lake edges, where it
normally keeps well hidden in tall grass or reeds. Perching at
the top of grass stalks to sing, it will dive down suddenly, or fly
weakly with a sharp clicking noise, if disturbed (Hails and
Jarvis 1987). In Baluran , it has a very limited distribution being
found only in Gatel Block. It often joins flocks of weavers when
the come to Baluran in breeding season (February-May) in the
Bulrush (Typha latifolia) grove.
Identification: Olive-green upperparts. Grey head, with thin
white eyebrow in female (Wells 2007). White throat and chest,
merging to yellow of breast and belly. Undertail has dark and
light bars.
Voice: Song is rapid, slightly descending trill, often preceded
by a chip: “chirp, didli-idli-u didli-idli-u, didli-idli-u, …”
(Handbook Of The Birds Of The World) or “chip cheererere-
up” (Hails and Jarvis 1987). Also ”chink-chink”, heard

199
Identification: Male in breeding plumage is throughout much of the day.
unmistakable with bright orange head and neck. Male
raises short crest when singing. Female and non- Length: 11 cm HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION Length: 13 cm
breeding male probably indistinguishable from Zitting Status: Least Concern Status: Least Concern
National Law: - National Law: -
Cisticola. Abundance: Rather rare
Voice: More often heard during the breeding season (in Abundance: Rather rare
Seasonality: Resident
Baluran was recorded on February); males give drawn- Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, pairs or in
out, nasal, cicada-like buzz, followed by one or more Sociality: Solitary
family groups (breeding)
short, loud chirps: "bzzeeeeeeeee-plook”.

Prinia familiaris

Bar-winged Prinia In Prinias differ from cisticolas and tailorbirds

in their generally plain, unstreaked
plumage, and longer tails, which are
Perenjak Jawa
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE strongly graduated and spotted at the tip
with black and white. Moreover the tails
are frequently held cocked, and during
interactions and displays, wag or wave it
about in an exaggerated fashion. It is
found only in Sumatra, Java and Bali, yet is
Length: 13 cm a familiar sight in urban parks and gardens,
Status: Least Concern as well as cultivated land. Found
National Law: - throughout Baluran, this is definitely the
Abundance: Very common most common prinia species in the park,
Seasonality: Resident occupying almost every available habitat,
Sociality: Solitary or in groups
though generally avoiding savanna. This
species forages mostly in the under-storey,
but will also climb high into the treetops.
Identification: Upperparts olive-brown
with two prominent white bars on darker
wing-coverts. Grey crown, lores, nape and
side-breast. White throat, ear-coverts and
underparts except for pale yellow belly
and vent. Tail rufous-brown with black
sub-terminal bar and white tip.
Voice: Plaintive “twee-wee-wee” (Mason
and Jarvis 1989) and loud, almost
explosive, high-pitched “chwuit-chwuit-
chwuit”.
 Prinia inornata
Plain Prinia
Perenjak Padi
Like the Green Peafowl, the Plain Prinia
has a disjunct distribution, occurring in
Java and mainland South-east Asia from
Indo-China to India, but is absent from the
rest of the Greater Sundas and Malay
Peninsula. It lives in habitats similar to the
slightly smaller Yellow-bellied Prinia, but
unlike the latter is quite approachable and
easy to observe. It mainly forages in the
undergrowth or grass, perching
occasionally at the top of a bush or grass
stalk. In Baluran it can be found along the
north coast eastward from Block Gatel,
200
and at several locations in Block Perengan,
commoner than Yellow-bellied Prinia.
Most prinias spend a a lot of time peering
under leaves and probing crevices in their
search for insects, but this species often
hops around on to the ground.
Identification: Brown upperparts, and tail
feathers with black subterminal band and
buff tip. White eyebrow, and underparts
the latter washed deep buff.
Voice: Calls most frequently than others
prinia as "chee-cheerrrr-roowit" or
"cheerlet" (MacKinnon et al. 1998)
DISTRIBUTION
HABITAT USE
Length: 15 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
Common Tailorbird
The tailorbirds are small group of energetic
birds with relatively long bills and slender
tails that are often cocked. All but two
species are confined to South-east Asia.
These birds get their name from their
method of nest construction, unique to
the Cisticolid warblers, in which the edges
of a large leaf or two smaller ones are
stitched together to form a pouch that
houses the nest. The nest-builder drills a
small hole with its bill along the leaf
margin, through which it pulls a thread of
spider web, insect silk or plant fibre, then
teases the end of the thread into a ball to
hold the stitch in place. A single nest may
have as many as 200 such stitches! The
nest is then built inside the pouch, using
grass and other plant material for the walls
and kapok, wool or other soft materials for
the lining. Unlike the cisticolas, however,
both sexes incubate the eggs and care for
the young.
The Common Tailorbird has the widest
distribution of all tailorbirds, occurring
from India and South China through
Southeast Asia to Java, though it is
curiously absent from Sumatra and
Borneo, as well as Bali. Though at the
eastern limit of this range, the population
in Baluran is very common and
widespread. Like most tailorbirds, this
species has adapted to urban habitats,
including city parks and gardens, and
cultivated lands. In Baluran it occupies the
edges of forest and savanna, though it
rarely penetrates far into the latter
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Orthotomus sutorius
Cinenen Pisang
habitats. Sometimes it skulks in grass or
low shrubs, but it also often works its way
up to the tree canopy, keeping to dense
foliage. Sometimes forages on ground
under shrubs, hopping with tail cocked and
flicked from side to side. Flies weakly,
moving only short distances between
shrubs.
Identification: olive-green upperparts
except for rufous fore-crown. White
underparts with grey streaks on side-
breast and flanks. Sides of head whitish. In
breeding plumage the central tail feathers
of the male are elongated by 3-4 cm
(Holmes and Nash 1989; Hails and Jarvis
1987).
Voice: Very loud for such a small bird.
201
Explosive “chwee-o” (Hails and Jarvis 1987)
or “te-chee” (MacKinnon and Phillipps
1993) repeated so quickly that it sounds
like one note (Hails and Jarvis 1987),
repeated monotonously for minutes at
a time (Holmes and Nash 1989).
Length: 10 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Usually in pairs
 Orthotomus sepium
Olive-winged Tailorbird JB
Cinenen Jawa
202
Like the Common Tailorbird in its general
habits, the Olive-backed Tailorbird is found
only on Java, Bali and Lombok. The only
other species of tailorbird that has crossed
Wallace's Line is the Mountain Tailorbird
O. cuculatus, which is confined to
elevations above 1,000 m above sea-level.
Until around 1990 this species was usually
considered as a race of the Ashy Tailorbird,
but the two forms are reported to exist
side by side in parts of Java. Although the
Olive-backed Tailorbird is thought to avoid
coastal areas inhabited by the Ashy
Tailorbird (Handbook Of The Birds Of The
World), the former occurs in mangroves in
Bali (without the latter), and there are
three records for Baluran, from coastal
Length: 11 cm HABITAT USE
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Small groups
forest in Bama, savanna edge in Bekol and
monsoon forest around main office. Its
status in the park is thus very poorly
understood. Elsewhere in Java this species
inhabits inland secondary forests and
forest edges up to 1500 m or more above
sea level.
Identification: Both sexes similar to the
Ashy Tailorbird, but grey of upperparts and
upper breast washed with green, and
lower breast, belly and vent pale yellow.
Iris reddish.
Voice: Described as an oft-repeated,
monotonous “chew-chew-chew” or “turr-
turr tsee-weet … tsee-weet” (MacKinnon
and Phillipps 1993; Handbook Of The Birds
Of The World).
DISTRIBUTION
Representing the largest genus of Old
World Warblers (including Cisticolines),
the Arctic Warbler is one of many species
that breed in temperate parts of Eurasia
during the Northern Hemisphere summer,
and migrate south to Africa, India and
Indo-China to avoid the bitter boreal
winter. Few of these migrants reach
Indonesia. The breeding range of the
Arctic Warbler spreads from Scandinavia
to Alaska, yet all populations spend their
non-breeding season in Southeast Asia,
from Thailand through the Sundas to
Timor, some travelling 13,000 kilometres.
They arrive in most parts of Indonesia
during September and stay until late April
to early May. In Baluran, Arctic Warblers
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Phylloscopus borealis
Arctic Wabler
Cikrak Kutub
203
have been recorded only in March and
April 2010 in monsoon and coastal forest,
but elsewhere in Java are known to visit
most types of forest and second growth.
They usually forage in outer foliage of the
canopy and often join mixed species
flocks.
Identification: Dark olive-green
upperparts with a long yellowish-white
eyebrow above a blackish eye-stripe, and a
faint whitish wing bar. Underparts whitish
with grey wash or streaks on flanks. Bill
dark above, orange below. The photo
shows a bird with a moulting tail.
Voice: Occasionally gives contact call “dzit”
or “chik”. Sweet song rarely given on non-
breeding grounds before March.
Length: 12 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Migrant
Sociality: Solitary
 Family Ordo

Muscicapidae
Old World Flycatchers, Chats
Passeriformes

Another large family occurring from Africa through Flight

Eurasia to Indonesia, the Old World Flycatchers
formerly included other groups that are now known to
be unrelated, namely the fantails and monarchs, and Slow. Direct, shallow
separated into families of their own. Instead, the Old Saxicola caprata
wingbeats.
World Flycatchers are closely related to the much
larger family of thrushes (Turdidae), sharing the
“turdine thumb” of the syrinx (voicebox) and several
Pied Bush Decu
ChatBelang
features of the forelimb and jaw, as well as having juveniles with spotted
plumage. Flycatchers generally differ from thrushes in having shortish, broad-
based bills, numerous rictal bristles and smaller, weaker legs and feet, all
features that are associated with their aerial, rather than ground-dwelling,
lifestyle. The vast majority are sit-and-wait predators, spending long periods Formerly included in the thrush family From such vantage points it pounces onto
perched on exposed branches in an upright posture, scanning the air or foliage (Turdidae), the bush-chats are unlike the ground to seize insects. It has the
around them for small insects, before darting off after them. The many long
204

typical flycatchers in that they forage and
stiff rictal bristles that surround the gape and cover the nostrils probably nest on or near the ground. The Pied
function to protect the eyes from collisions with parts of their prey when Bushchat has a very broad distribution
sallying. Most species are sexual dimorphic, the males being brightly-coloured from the Middle East to Indo-China, but is
and females rather drab. While the majority of species in Indonesia are absent from the Thai-Malay Peninsula and
resident, several are non-breeding migrants from the Northern Hemisphere. Greater Sundas except for Java and Bali.
Their songs are not as complex or loud as most thrushes, but several species From here it extends through the Lesser
give quite melodious calls. Sundas, having crossed Wallace's Line, and
Of the 17 species found in Java, five are found in Baluran. even to New Guinea, having crossed
Weber's Line (following the Australian
tectonic plate) into New Guinea. It is a bird
of open, grassy country, and is quick to
Estimate their size colonize areas cleared by humans for
1 2 3 4 agricultural, urban and transport
development. Indeed, its range is still
expanding in New Guinea, where evidence
suggests it to be a recent colonist. In Java
it is a familiar sight on telegraph wires,
rooftops and fences in cities and villages,
as well as on low bushes in cultivated land.
Length: 14 cm
Status: Least Concern
1. Common Tailorbird
2. Pied Bush Chat National Law: -
3. Yellow-rumped Flycatcher Abundance: Rare
4. Hill Blue Flycatcher Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs
205
characteristic habit of frequently flicking
its tail (Holmes and Nash 1989), or cocking
it when agitated (MacKinnon and Phillipps
1993). It is not common in Baluran, can be
seen in the savanna or on the edge of
monsoon forest in Bekol. Sadly its
melodious song has made it popular as a
cagebird, and thus, a target for bird
poachers in recent 5 years.
Identification: Males are entirely black
except for a prominent white wing bar,
rump and vent. Female is generally brown
above with darker streaks, except for a
plain pale rufous rump and white vent,
and paler below with brown streaking.
Voice: Song is a high-pitched cheerful
whistled phrase: “chip wee wee cheooo”.
Calls include harsh grating “tchak” (Mason
and Jarvis 1989; Coates and Bishop 1997)
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE

Ficedula zanthopygia
206
Yellow-rumped Flycatcher
Sikatan Emas
This species belongs to a large genus
(Ficedula) of diminutive, rather
inconspicuous flycatchers, most of which
are strongly sexually dimorphic, the males
having orange or rufous patches in their
plumage while the females are largely
brown. Most Indonesian species are
residents, but a few, such as the Yellow-
rumped Flycatcher, are migrants from the
Northern Hemisphere. This species breeds
in eastern Russia and China during the
boreal summer, then migrates south to the
Malay Peninsula and Sumatra, occasionally
reaching Java and Bali. In Sumatra, most
birds arrive in mid to late September, and
stay until mid-March or even late April,
frequenting forest, second growth, and
mangroves. It forages at all levels of the
forest, usually by aerial sallying from a
regular perch, but also snatches from
foliage, and occasionally on the ground.
This species visits East Java and Bali in only
Length: 13 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Migrant
Sociality: Solitary
small numbers, and it has been seen only
once in Baluran – in Bama coastal forest on
March 2010.
Identification: Male has black upperparts
with white wing bar and eyebrow, and
yellow rump; yellow underparts except for
white vent. Female has dull olive-grey
upperparts, browner on wing, and pale
yellow rump; pale yellow underparts
except for white belly and grey barring on
side-breast.
Voice: Not noted in the park, but in Bali
Barat, repeatedly gave a rattling “trrr” and
“tee”, as well as a short melodious warble.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Cyornis banyumas
Hill Blue Flycatcher
Sikatan Cacing
The Blue Flycatchers are a moderately
large genus (Cyornis) of flycatchers
confined to South and Southeast Asia,
and characteristic of the middle and
lower layers of forest. They are generally
larger and more solidly built than the
Ficedula flycatchers, with proportionally
longer and heavier bills. Few species are
migratory. The Hill Blue Flycatcher lives
mostly in primary and secondary forests
at altitudes between 400 and 2,000
metres above sea level, from the East
Himalayas to Java and Borneo, though
absent from Sumatra. In Baluran, it is
HABITAT USE
found in coastal forest at Bama,
Bajulmati River and Baluran Mountain
crater. Once was observed nesting on
March 2009, juvenile male was seen on
June 2010.
Length: 15 cm
207
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
Identification: Male has dark blue
upperparts, except for pale blue
forehead, shoulder patch, and line over
broad black mask. Underparts bright
orange, except for white belly and vent.
Female has greyish-brown upperparts
with rufous on rump and tail; pale buff
eyering; underparts as male but paler.
Voice: Loud, melodious cadence: "sirrt ..
tsee .. tsee .. tsee .. tsee", MacKinnon
and Phillipps (1993) sonogram shows 4
notes, the 2nd one higher then the 1st and
3rd, and 4th lowest of all.
DISTRIBUTION
 Cyornis rufigastra

Mangrove Blue Flycatcher

Sikatan Bakau

This species has very similar habits to the Hill Blue

Flycatcher, but is mostly found in coastal forests,
including mangroves, from the Malay Peninsula through
the Greater Sunda islands, including Bali, and
Philippines. In Baluran, it is onnly found in the coastal
forest at Bama block.
Identification: Male is very similar to that of the Hill Blue
Flycatcher except that the forehead and eyebrow line is
narrower and duller, and the orange of the underparts
extend onto the belly. The female, on the other hand,
differs from all other blue flycatchers, in resembling the
208

209
male, except for whitish lores joining above the bill, and
buffish-white chin.
Voice: similar to Hill Blue Flycatcher but slower and
deeper.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE

Length: 15 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Family Ordo Gerygone sulphurea

Acanthizidae
Australasian warblers
Passeriformes Golden-bellied Gerygone
Remetuk Laut
The only member of its family in the Greater Sundas, this species is best

T his moderate-sized family with almost 70 species

consists of small, active insectivores that are largely
confined to Australia and New Guinea. Formerly
simply called “warblers”, the gerygones are the only
genus in the family that successfully crossed the seas
Flight

Fast flapping. Shallow

beyond the western margin of the Australian tectonic plate undulating
known as Weber's Line. Two forms became stranded on
Timor and islands to the east, and evolved into endemic
species, while a third form colonized much further west, crossing Wallace's Line. The
latter form became the Golden-bellied Gerygone or “Flyeater”, whose modern range
extends right across Indonesia and into mainland Asia as far west as Vietnam.
Gerygones are birds of the forest canopy and mid-stage, where they glean and snatch
small insects and spiders from foliage and small twigs. Their neatly-woven globular
pitched cadence of up to 6 notes, sliding up and down the scale, and repeated
nests have a hood covering their entrance at the side, and often a characteristic “tail”.
Suspended from the ends of branches, they are very similar to those of the unrelated
sunbirds.
210
known for its sweet tuneful song which can be heard anywhere in cities and
towns, as well as in mangroves, plantations and second growth. In Java and
Bali it is locally common up to 1500 metres above sea level, but in Baluran it
seems largely restricted to mangrove forests. Was found in Batuitem, Gatel
and Bilik-Sijile block. But it is possible spreading more widely throughout of
the mangrove and coastal forests in Baluran. Its distinctive far-carrying voice
can be heard throughout the day, but being so small it is not so easy to
observe.
Identification: Olive-brown upperparts, greyer on head, with white spot at
base of upper mandible joining on forehead. Yellow underparts merging into
white on vent.
Voice: Song is a reedy (like someone whistling through their teeth) high-
many times.
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE

211
Estimate their size 1 2 3 4

1. Golden-bellied Gerygone
2. Zitting Cisticola
3. Hill Blue Flycatcher
4. Yellow-vented Bulbul

Length: 9 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitaryor in pairs
 Above: Famale
Family Ordo Below: Male

Passeriformes
Monarchidae
Monarchs, Paradise Flycatchers

Black-naped Monarch
slightly larger family than the Australasian Flight
warblers (Acanthizidae) with over 90 species,
the Monarchs and relatives have a much wider
global distribution, stretching from Africa Direct, with fast
eastwards through Southeast Asia to islands of the flapping
Southwest Pacific. The highest numbers of species are
to be found in New Guinea and Oceania, and all but a
few are tropical or sub-tropical in distribution. Few are migratory. A diagnostic
characteristic of monarchs is their pale blue-grey bill, which is broad,
sometimes strongly flattened, hooked at the tip, and fringed by well-
developed rictal bristles. The tail is moderately long in most species, but

Hypothymis azurea

Kehicap Ranting
greatly elongated into streamers in the Paradise Flycatchers, and is often
fanned or shivered. Few species are migratory. The majority are sexually
212

213
dimorphic to some extent, spectacularly so in some species. Unlike the Old
World Flycatchers, juvenile monarchs are unspotted. Vocalizations include
distinctively unmusical grating calls, as well as whistled songs. Of the two
monarchs in Java, one occurs in Baluran.

Estimate their size

1 2 3 between India and Flores, the Black-naped
1. Black-naped Monarch
2. Pied Fantail
3. Hill Blue Flycatcher
Length: 16 cm
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, or in pairs,
often in mixed species flocks.
With no fewer than 25 races spread
Monarch is easily the most variable and
widespread of the monarchs. Common
throughout the Greater Sundas, it is
largely a forest bird, but also inhabits tall
second growth and plantations. In Baluran
it occupies all available habitats except
savanna. It generally forages in the lower
levels of the forest, where it sallies after
flying insects and snatches stationary ones
from foliage. Not particularly shy, this bird
is readily attracted to imitations of its call.
Its cup-shaped nest, placed in the fork of a
branch, is often decorated on the outside
with lichen and moss, and has a untidy
“tail” of loose material dangling below it.
Once we observed a pair build their nest
on monsoon forest on December 2008. It
was one meter above the ground.
Surprisingly, in this species and all
monarchs, the brightly-coloured males
share incubation duties with the drabber
female.
Identification: Male is predominantly
iridescent pale blue, with a black erectile
tuft forming a short crest at the rear of its
peaked head; also thin black band across
the chest, and around the base of the bill.
The belly is greyish-white. Female has
bluish-grey head and breast, and brown
upperparts.
Voice: Calls include harsh "chee-chwit” or
“shweb-shweb”. Song described as ringing
monotonal whistle: “wee-wee-wee-wee
…” or “sweet-sweet-sweet” (Phillipps and
Phillipps 2009).
 Family Ordo
Rhipiduridae
Fantails
Passeriformes
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Length: 19 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1, 2
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Resident

T his family has fewer species (about 40) than the

monarch family, but also has a more restricted global
distribution, being confined to South and Southeast
Asia, Australia and islands of the Southwest Pacific.
The highest number of species is in New Guinea, where the
Flight

Generally weak but

buoyant and
Sociality: Solitary or in pairs, often following
mixed species flocks.

family probably originated. Consisting of only one, fairly maneuverable, able to

uniform genus (Rhipidura) the fantails are far less diverse in turn quickly in very short
size, shape and colour than the monarchs. Their most distances.
obvious characteristic, and the one that explains their
vernacular name, is a long, fan-shaped tail, which comprises about half the total length
of the bird, and which is characteristically spread and waved from side to side almost
continuously. Other features of fantails are a small, flat, broad-based (almost
triangular) bill with a tiny hooked tip, numerous very long rictal bristles in two rows
between the gape and the eye (monarchs have only one row), and short legs with weak
feet. They also have rounded wings, which sacrifice speed for extra manoeuverability,
an important ability for birds that chase flying insects in the confined spaces of dense
214

215
forests, often twisting and turning almost 180 degrees in mid-air. Java hosts three
species of fantails, of which two are endemic to the island, one occurs in Baluran.

2 3
Estimate their size 1
1. Black-napped Monarch
2. Pied Fantail
3. Hill Blue Flycatcher

A familiar garden bird in many cities throughout its broad unbroken range
Pied Fantail
Rhipidura javanica

Kipasan Belang

from Indo-China to Bali, the Pied Fantail occurs in most lowland habitats,
but is particularly fond of mangroves. In common with all fantails, this
species is constantly in motion, pirouetting (a rapid spin of the body ) on a
perch while swinging its fanned tail from side to side, then launching into
the air to chase a flying insect, or tumbling through the foliage to flush
stationary ones. It often joins mixed species flocks, in which they closely
follow other birds to take advantage of prey items that they flush. In
Baluran it is widespread and common, occupying all types of habitat
except savanna, and tending to forage in the understorey.
Identification: Dark sooty-brown upperparts, almost black on head, with
short white eyebrow and broad tips to otherwise black tail feathers.
Underparts white except for broad black breast band.
Voice: Song is high pitched, somewhat squeaky but tuneful phrase: “chee-
chee-wee-wwet” or "chew-weet chew-weet chew-weet chew", with last
note falling.
 Family Ordo As its English name suggests, this species undergrowth and the forest mid-storey. In
Passeriformes is a fairly common inhabitant of Baluran NP it is often observed in the

Pachycephalidae
Whistlers, Shrikethrushes
mangroves thoughout its wide range,
which extends from Northeast India
through Southeast Asia to Lombok, as well
as Palawan. However, like many species of
coastal forests of Bama, but also occupies
riparian forest and monsoon forest with
dense canopy.
Identification: Dull greyish-brown
mangroves, it has fairly broad niche upperparts, greyer on the head, with
requirements, and can be found in most greyish-white forehead and lores. Greyish-

D espite being a slightly bigger family (56 species) than Flight

the previous one (Rhipiduridae) with a greater
diversity of size, form and colour, the whistlers have
an even more restricted global distribution, being
largely confined to New Guinea, Australia and Wallacea.
Direct, and rather weak.
wooded habitats, such as second growth
and rubber plantations, adjacent to the
coast, and even up to 800 metres above
sea level. Due to its loud, melodious voice,
this species is often heard, but owing to its
white underparts.
Voice: Song varied, but usually an easily-
imitated sequence of 3-5 monotonal
whistled notes, accelerating and
Only four species have crossed Wallace's Line, and one of increasing in volume, and ending with a
generally shy and retiring nature, rarely single whip-crack: “tee-tee-tee-chwip”.
these (featured here) extends as far as Southeast India. As their name implies, the
seen. Generally sluggish, like most Calls include a disyllabic note, stressed on
whistlers are best known for their powerful, melodious whistled songs, which often
end suddenly with a whipcrack note. They are robust, relatively big-headed birds with a whistlers, it feeds on insects caught by second syllable: “fa-laep” (Wells 2007) and
stout, shrike-like bill and short rictal bristles. The legs are moderately long and the feet gleaning and snatching, mainly in dense loud flat “ting”.
strong, useful for species which forage on the ground. Most whistlers, however, are
canopy and mid-stage dwellers, that spend much time sitting sedately on a horizontal Length: 14 cm
branch while peering intently at the undersides of leaves above them, before leaping to Status: Least Concern
another perch or hopping along the branch to another vantage point. Insects are National Law: -
usually captured by gleaning and snatching, as whistlers rarely hawk or sally in the Abundance: Rare
216

217
manner of flycatchers, monarchs and fantails. The majority of species are sexually Seasonality: Resident
dimorphic to some degree, though in several species (such as the Mangrove Whistler) Sociality: Solitary or in pairs
the male has dull female-like plumage. Juveniles are unspotted and often mainly rufous
in coloration.
Two species occur in Java, one of which (Golden Whistler P. pectoralis) is among the
most variable songbirds in the world, with 59 currently recognised races spread
between Fiji and mountains in East Java. The other species, found in Baluran, is much
more widespread.

Estimate their size

1 2 3 4

1. Mangrove Whistler
a
sol
2. Black-napped Monarch
ri
rkau
3. Pied Fantail
la g
e
4. Hill Blue Flycatcher
a

Pa
c hy cep
h
l
istn Ba
h
WKa n cila
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE

ove
n g r
Ma
 Family Ordo Described by some as the best-known avian habitats. In Baluran it is widely distributed,
Passeriformes species in the world, the Great Tit has one of occupying all available habitats, including

Paridae
Tits
the widest distibutions of any passerine,
stretching from Britain eastwards to
Southeast Russia, Japan and in Indonesia, as
far as Flores and Sumba. Although 34 races
mangroves. It forages over a wide range of
heights, and frequently joins, or is joined by
other species in mixed-species foraging
flocks, which often include minivets,
are recognized, only three occur in sunbirds, munias or white-eyes. Like other
Indonesia, the Javan form (P. m. cinereus) tits, it builds its nests inside holes on the

T his family is a familiar one throughout much of the

Northern Hemisphere, including Africa, Eurasia and
North America, but it is absent from Australasia and
South America. Indeed, of the 56 species, only two
have reached the Greater Sundas, although the Philippines
Flight

Direct, short distance.

Usually with voice
being the same as that of the Lesser Sundas.
Unlike the European forms with their
greenish back and yellow sides, the local
race has a grey back and white sides. In
other respects, however, it is very similar to
trunk or branch of a tree, sometimes using
cavities made by barbets.
Identification: Black head and throat, except
for large white patch on side of face,
extending below as a broad stripe to the
has three endemic species. The tits are a homogeneous producing. its European counterparts, being a relatively vent. Dark bluish-grey mantle, wings and
group of small, rather plump, mainly insectivorous birds conspicuous and noisy bird that has adapted tail, except for a white wing-bar and
with a shortish, somewhat conical bill, which is used by to gardens and parks in cities and lightly edges to tail. White nape patch,
many species to crack open the seeds that form an important component of the diet of wooded cultivation, as well as natural and sides of breast and belly.
North Temperate species. Intelligent and adaptable birds, some temperate species are
known to hoard seeds for retrieval during the cold winter months, when insect food
sources are scarce. Individual birds may so cache seeds in thousands of sites, which
they are able to locate with astonishing accuracy, demonstrating an uncanny memory.
Their legs and feet are strong as they are often required to support the bird while it is
hanging upside-down on twigs or leaves, but are also used to hold down food items

219
while they are hammered by the bill. Tits are active, noisy, and social birds, and unlike
218

2
many of the previous families that originated in Australia, they nest in tree holes. Only
one species occurs in Java and Indonesia as well.

Estimate their size

1 2 3 4 Voice: Noisy
Parus major
throughout the day,
with various harsh
churring or nasal calls:
Great Tit
Gelatikbatu Kelabu
"chee-weet" or "chi-
chi-chi" or “pi-chu, pi-
chu” or “tcha-tcha-
tcha”.
1. Great Tit
2. Javan Munia
3. Scarlet-headed Flowerpecker
4. Long-tailed Shrike

DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Length: 13 cm

Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, or in mixed flocks
 Sitta frontalis
Family Ordo
Velvet-fronted Nuthatch
Sittidae
Nuthatches
Passeriformes
Munguk Beledu

W ell-known for their habit of descending tree
trunks head-first, as well as climbing them,
the nuthatch family comprises a single
genus (Sitta) of 27 species that are spread
across much of the Northern Hemisphere, but are
conspicuously absent from the southern continents. Only
two species have colonized Indonesia from the mainland,
and although both are found in Java, neither occurs in Bali,
let alone on the other side of Wallace's Line. Like the closely-
related tits, which are also largely restricted to the Northern
Hemisphere, nuthatches are omnivorous, feeding primarily
on insects, but also on nuts and seeds, especially during the
cold winter months in the temperate zone. As with the tits,
nuthatches nest in tree holes, and sometimes store and hide
seeds in crevices for later retrieval. They have a
characteristic dumpy appearance due to the short tail
and legs, but the toes are equipped with strong claws
220
Java forms the south-eastern limit of the range of this widespread species,
which occurs from India through Indo-China to all of the islands of the Greater
Sundas except Bali. It is easily the prettiest of all nuthatches, which are typically
dressed in grey, black and white, and chestnut in varying amounts. Similar in its
locomotory habits to other members of its family, the Velvet-fronted Nuthatch
forages hurriedly on tree trunks and smaller branches, mostly in the upper and
middle levels of trees, and rarely visiting the ground. Elsewhere it occupies a
wide variety of forests and plantations, but in Baluran, it is found only in
evergreen forest with a dense canopy, as occurs in the south from Bama Block
to Manting, Baluran Mountain Crater, and along Bajulmati River. Nests are
evidently placed in existing cavities, often ones abandoned by woodpeckers or
barbets.
Identification: Violet-blue upperparts, with black forehead and thin line
extending behind eyes (males only), and lilac ear-coverts. Pinkish-buff
underparts except for white throat. Red bill, and yellow eyes with orange eye-
ring.

221
to prevent them from falling off trunks and branches Voice: Quite noisy; common call is a loud “siip-siip-siip”, sometimes preceded by
while jerkily hopping up or down tree trunks and a disyllabic “chit-chit”.
along branches, top and bottom, the latter while
upside-down. Their pointed, somewhat wedge- DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
shaped bill is used to probe crevices and pry off
flakes of bark to expose prey, but occasionally these
birds will hold a piece of bark and use it, as a tool, to
access grubs hidden deeper in the wood.
Two species occur on Java, but one, the Blue Nuthatch (S.
azurea), does not occur in Baluran as it is a montane
specialist, rarely occurring below 900 metres above sea-
level.

Flight
Estimate their size
1 Several rapid
2
wingbeats with short
glides. Often with
3 4 voice producing. Length: 13 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
1. Crimson-winged Woodpecker Abundance: Rare
2. Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker Seasonality: Resident
3. Velvet-fronted Nuthatch Sociality: Pairs of small
4. Great Tit groups, often joining
mixed species flocks
 Cabai Jawa
Dicaeum trochileum

Scarlet-headed Flowerpecker
Family Ordo
Passeriformes
Dicaeidae
Flowerpeckers

T his homogeneous family of 44 species is largely Flight

confined to the Oriental Region, from India through
Southeast Asia, with a high diversity in the Philippines
and Wallacea, yet only a few species found further Fast, with deep wing
east, including Australia and the Solomon Islands. The flapping, usually direct,
flowerpeckers are stocky, often colorful, little birds that have but sometimes erratic
short, stubby tails, as well as short legs and tiny feet. Their with sharp turns and
bills are also short and slightly downcurved, but vary dips.
between species in thickness, some being chunky and others, Adult Male
quite slender. The vast majority of species belong to the Adult Female
genus Dicaeum, for which the Indonesian name is 'Cabai' (chilli pepper), referring to
the red patches that often adorn their plumage. However, it is only the male that is
brightly colored among the sexually dimorphic species, and in many species, they too
have female-like plumage. As their name suggests, many flowerpeckers are known to Java is the main home edge, never penetrating far into
visit flowers to drink nectar, and in so doing act as pollinators for plants, such as the
222

for this species, plus the
notorious Durian. However, their major ecological role in the forest is to disperse seeds, smaller island of Bali, but it
as they are primarily fruit-eaters. Small berries are swallowed whole, but larger fruits also occurs in southern
are punctured or crushed, and their edible contents squeezed or sucked out. Most if Kalimantan and South Sumatra,
not all flowerpeckers are associated with mistletoes, for which they are the main where it is probably a recent
dispersal agents, as the seeds pass unharmed through their specialized gut while the immigrant from Java. It has also
pulp is digested. These epiphytic shrubs are 'planted' by the birds as they defecate, crossed Wallace's Line to Lombok,
since the sticky-coated seeds immediately adhere to the bird's perch. Insects and but is uncommon there. Like many
spiders are also eaten by flowerpeckers to add protein to this carbohydrate-rich diet.
The nest is an unusually soft and supple, pear-shaped purse, suspended from leafy
In flowerpeckers, it happily lives in
cities and villages wherever there
twigs. Foraging in a mixed flock together sunbirds, white-eye and fellow flowerpecker. are mistletoes and fruit-bearing
Java has seven species, of which one species is found in Baluran. trees, such as figs. It is typically
restless, moving quickly from one
branch to another, and often hidden
Estimate their size in the dense canopy of tall trees,
1
though males often sing from high
exposed perches. In Baluran it is
2 3
widespread, but commonest in the
monsoon forest and coastal forest
1. Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
2. Velvet-fronted Nuthatch
3. Scarlet-headed Flowerpecker
223
savanna. It has been seen feeding on
the fruits of Talok (Grewia eriocarpa)
and epiphytic shrub Benalu
(Loranthus sp).
Identification: Male is
predominantly scarlet with black
wings and tail, and grey to white
lower breast, flanks and belly.
Female is mainly brown, with
reddish wash on head and mantle,
and scarlet rump; underparts are
dull white.
Voice: Typical of all flowerpeckers,
the main call is a distinctive sharp,
buzzy, high-pitched note, repeated:
“zit, zit, ….” or “chit, chit…” often
given in flight. The song is described
as a series of sweet double notes,
rising and falling in pitch.
Length: 8 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs or small groups
 Family
Passeriformes
Nectariniidae
Sunbirds, Spiderhunters
T his is a large, mainly tropical and subtropical Old Flight
World family of 132 species, distributed from
Africa through South and Southeast Asia, and as
with the previous family (flowerpeckers), only a Direct with fast wing
beats; often hover in
few species occur beyond Weber's Line, in New Guinea front of flowers or
and Australia. However, the atypical Spiderhunters, like spiders' webs, to glean
the forktails, are restricted to the Oriental region. With insects and spiders
their nectar-feeding habits, small size and mostly brightly rather than access
nectar.
coloured, often iridescent, plumage, the sunbirds
resemble the famous hummingbirds (Trochilidae) of the
New World, and some species regularly hover in front of
flowers to complete this analogy. However their long bills are downcurved, more
like those of the honeyeaters (Meliphagidae) of Australasia and Pacific islands.
224
Moreover, like honeyeaters but unlike hummingbirds, sunbirds extract nectar by
sucking it along a tubular, brush-tipped tongue, but have no crop in which to store
it, forcing them to feed frequently. Their foreheads are often discolored by the
pollen of the flowers they probe, and as such, sunbirds play an important role in
plant pollination. Insects are also regularly eaten to satisfy protein requirements.
Sexual dimorphism is pronounced in sunbirds, but almost absent in the
spiderhunters. Like flowerpeckers and gerygones, sunbirds suspend their domed,
purse- or flask-shaped nests from twigs, whereas the spiderhunters are unique in
attaching their cup-shaped nest to the underside of a leaf. Java host eight species
of sunbird and four species of spiderhunters. Two sunbirds are endemic to the
island, and both avoid the lowlands. Six species of this family are found in Baluran.
Estimate their size 1 2 3 brown wings. Side of head dark olive. Throat and foreneck
1. Long-billed Spiderhunter
2. Brown-throated Sunbird
3. Olive-backed Sunbird
Ordo
Anthreptes malacensis
Brown-throated Sunbird
Burungmadu Kelapa
Adult Male
This species and the next are among the most widely
distributed sunbirds in Southeast Asia, having crossed
Wallace's Line, and both are familiar residents of urban
gardens, coconut plantations, cultivated lands and second
growth. The Brown-throated Sunbird is found from Indo-
China through the Greater Sundas, extending as far east
as Flores and Sumba, in the Lesser Sundas. The
225
Indonesian name for the genus (Burungmadu) literally
means “honey-bird”, while the name for this species
(Kelapa) refers to coconut palms, a plant with which this
species frequently associates, especially when it is
flowering. It is primarily a nectar-feeder, probing the
flowers of many plant species including mangroves and
mistletoes, as well as cultivated Hibiscus and coconut DISTRIBUTION
palms. However it also feeds on insects and spiders, and
occasionally fruit and seeds. In Baluran, it is patchily-
distributed, but abundant in Bama and Gatel Blocks in
mangrove forest.
Identification: Male has metallic green and purple
upperparts except for reddish-chestnut wing-coverts and HABITAT USE
whitish in center, tan-brown at sides, bordered by metallic
purple cheek stripe. Rest of underparts yellow. Female
has olive-green uppeparts with pale yellow eyering, and
pale yellow underparts. Bill thicker and straighter than
that of the Olive-backed Sunbird. Length: 13 cm
Status: Least Concern
Voice: Calls more hoarse than Olive-backed Sunbird; high-
National Law: 1, 2
pitched “tweeet-tweeet-tweeet” (MacKinnon et al. 1998) Abundance: Rare
or “wheet-tiu, wheet-tiu, wheet-tiu” (Mason and Jarvis
Seasonality: Resident
1989). Song is repeated phrase “chip-chip-chip, wheet” Sociality: Pairs and occasionally
the last note on a higher scale (Hails and Jarvis 1987). groups at nectar sources

Cynniris jugularis
Olive-backed
Burungmadu Sriganti
Sunbird
Arguably the commonest and most
226
widespread of all Asian sunbirds,
this species is comprised of 22 races
spread through Southeast Asia and
eastwards as far as North
Melanesia. Found on both large and
small islands, it is the only sunbird
to have colonized Australia,
presumably via Maluku and New
Guinea. Its capacity to colonise
islands relates to its preference for
open areas and disturbed habitats.
It visits the flowers of a wide variety
of cultivated or feral exotics (e.g.
Papaya, Canna, and Bottlebrush),
and indigenous plants, presumable
for nectar, but also frequently
hover-gleans spiders from webs,
and gleans insects from foliage.
DISTRIBUTION
Length: 10 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, in pairs or small groups
Adult Male
Adult Female
The most widespread sunbird in
Baluran, it occupies all habitat
types, except savanna.
Identification: Olive upperparts
except for blackish tail tipped white.
Fore-crown, throat and upper breast
black with purple and blue
iridescence on breeding males.
Yellow lower breast and belly.
Female is yellowish-olive above,
with yellow eyebrow, and all yellow
below; non-breeding and juvenile
males are similar except for purple-
black strip down center of throat.
Voice: Noisy and varied calls,
including high-pitched “zztt-eet”,
repeated, or nasal, upslurred
“tweet”, and strident “chee-ip,
cheep-ip, chee-ip” (Wells 2007).
HABITAT USE
Arachnothera robusta
Long-billed Spiderhunter
Pijantung Besar
The spiderhunters are larger and more
robust than the sunbirds, from which they
also differ in lacking any iridescence in the
plumage, and a non-pendant nest, in
which the eggs are incubated by both
sexes. These birds always appear to be in a
rush as they are typically seen speeding
through the forest, not far from the
ground, sometimes passing alarmingly
close by an observer. Despite their English
name, spiderhunters are primarily nectar-
feeders, inserting their very long bills and
specialized tongues deep into the flower-
tubes of various plants, such as those of
gingers, epiphytes and bananas.
Nevertheless they are known to take
spiders and insects, sometimes extracting
the former from their webs while
hovering.
The patchy distribution of the Long-billed
Spiderhunter extends from the Thai-Malay
Peninsula to East Java, yet not to Bali. It is
rare in Baluran, which is close to the
eastern edge of the species' range, and has
been seem only at the park's central office
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
Length: 21 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: 1, 2
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
complex (Batangan) during the early wet
season months of December to January,
which coincide with the flowering period
of trees. The nest is bottle-shaped with a
wide entrance leading through a tunnel to
a cup, and is attached to the underside of
a leaf, such as a banana, using spiderweb,
or the edges of a leaf are sewn together to
form a tube. Such nests are well concealed
from predators, but force the owners to
land upside-down (Handbook Of The Birds
Of The World).
Identification: Very long bill with broad
base. Olive upperparts, except for blackish
tail with white tips on outer feathers.
Throat and breast dull yellow streaked
227
olive; belly bright yellow. Male has orange-
yellow 'pectural tufts' hidden below
shoulder.
Voice: Generally quiet. A loud "chak-chak"
in flight, plus a hoarse “krek”. Song said to
be a rising “choi, choi, choi …”.
 Family Ordo
Passeriformes
Zosteropidae
White-eyes
T his largely tropical and sub-tropical Old World family Flight
is quite large with 98 species, yet three-quarters of
them belong to a single homogeneous genus
(Zosterops), most members of which share olive- Direct, fast flapping,
green upperparts, a yellow throat and a silvery-white ring without undulation
of feathers around the eyes. They are small, warbler-like
birds with a short, slender, almost straight bill, shortish,
rounded wings, and slender but strong legs. White-eyes inhabit all wooded habitats,
and are almost exclusively arboreal. They spend much of their time searching amongst
foliage for insects and their larvae, and spiders, which are usually gleaned from leaves
or twigs, or extracted from bark crevices. However these birds also take a great deal of
fruit when available, and probe flowers of many kinds to extract the nectar, facilitated
by the long, grooved tongue which has a brush tip for mopping up liquids. The latter is
228
also a useful adaptation for extracting the juice and pulp from fruits that are too large
or difficult to remove from the tree, after piercing the skin. The narrow openings of
tubular flowers and rolled-up leaves are sometimes widened by inserting the bill, then
opening the two mandibles. Highly gregarious, white-eyes often congregate into flocks
that seem to be constantly on the move. Outside the breeding season these flocks can
be very large, sometimes consisting of over 100 individuals. Moreover, they are
frequently core members, and even leaders, of mixed-species foraging flocks. Flocks
are persistently noisy as many individuals simultaneously give chicken-like chirping
notes; but when in pairs they tend to be quiet, except when the male sings, often
including mimicry.
Java has five species, four of which are typical white-eyes (Zosterops), while the
remaining one (Grey-throated Ibon) is endemic to Java and Bali, but restricted to
mountains. Baluran has one species, but a second species may be an occasional visitor.
Estimate their size
1 3
2
1. Common Iora
2. Olive-backed Sunbird
3. Oriental White-eye
Oriental White-eye
Zosterops palpebrosus
Kacamata Biasa
This is the common white-eye of Javan lowlands, though its range
extends from India in the west, to Flores in the east. However it is
variable in plumage and four races occur in Indonesia, including two
on Java. The typical form in the lowlands (Z. p.melanurus) is entirely
yellow on the underparts, while a race in West Java (Z. p. buxtoni)
229
has a greyish-white breast and belly with a yellow stripe running
down the middle. It frequents a range of habitats, from forests to
cities and cultivated lands. In Baluran it prefers monsoon forest,
mainly in the eastern half of the park, frequently observed around
the main office, but seems to avoid forest at higher altitudes,
mangroves and savannas. Feeding on small insects and the nectar of
many plants, it forages in large groups of 30-35 individuals. It also
often forms mixed-species feeding flocks with Great Tits,
nuthatches, flycatchers and minivets (Handbook Of The Birds Of The
World).
Identification: Olive-green upperparts and yellow underparts. Head
mostly olive with yellow forehead and white eyering, which is
broken at front by a black loral line that then extends halfway under
eyering. Another species, the Lemon-bellied White-eye Z. chloris,
may visit Baluran occasionally from offshore islands which is
practically identical except for yellower upperparts.
Voice: Usual contact call a repeated, monotonous, sibilant
“cheuw” or “cheer cheer cheer” like cheeping of young chickens.
Also a series of weak, high-pitched twitters, repeated at intervals
of 1-2 seconds (Handbook Of The Birds Of The World)
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION Length: 11 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs and flocks
 Family Ordo Lonchura leucogastroides

Estrildidae
Grassfinches, Munias
Passeriformes
Javan Munia In
Bondol Jawa

I nfamous as pests of agriculture but popular in

aviculture, the Estrildid finches are a large Old World
family (134 species) of small seed-eating birds, with
most species in Africa and Australasia. The short,
thick, conical bills, by which these birds are easily
Flight

Finch type, swift and

Despite its English name, this species can be found
beyond Java, in Bali and Lombok to the east, and in
South Sumatra to the west, though the latter
population may well have been introduced, just as
DISTRIBUTION

recognized, are very strong, and along with powerful jaw direct, moderately
muscles, are ideally suited for husking the grass seeds
undulating.
that form their staple diet. Their wings are short and
rounded, the tail generally short, and the feet robust, as
when they are not perched on grass stems, they forage on the ground picking up
fallen seed. Most species are highly gregarious, forming large flocks that can cause
much damage to rice crops, especially when the rice is at the unripe, “milky” stage.
Understandably, therefore, farmer's children are encouraged to destroy their nests.
Munias often form mixed flocks of three or even more species, and often engage in
230
the species was to Singapore in the early 1920s.
Formerly very common over most of Java, it has
HABITAT USE
undergone significant declines in some parts of the
island since 1950. It frequents open areas and
cultivated land of any kind, and usually in larger
flocks, especially with other munia species. In
Baluran, it is widespread and still very common in
grassland, rice paddies and along forest edges.
Length: 11 cm
Identification: Dull dark brown upperparts with

231
Status: Least Concern
“roller-feeding” with the birds at the rear continually over-flying those at the front. black face, throat and upper breast. Lower breast, National Law: -
Although many species breed in loose colonies, pairs maintain a strong pair bond, belly and flanks are white, but vent is blackish. Abundance: Very common
preening each other frequently, though as with most birds, monogamy is probably Voice: Typical of munias, soft, squeaking “chee Seasonality: Resident
rare. Song is sexual, males singing at close range to females rather than preet preet” or ”pe-teet”. Social: Pairs small to large flocks.
broadcasting. The nest an unwoven ball of dried grass with a side entrance, and
both sexes share all nesting duties. Estrildid finches have been kept as cage pets for
centuries, and are still popular among aviculturists because of their lively nature
and sweet songs. Indeed it is likely that recent range expansions of some species in
Indonesia is due to aviary birds escaping and establishing feral populations. The
finch trade in Indonesia is still large, unregulated and unmonitored, and sadly, has
been responsible for the decline of at least one species. Emprit as Javanese people
call it due to its voice, like as Javan Munia's squeaking “preet” (see Javan Munia
page). Java has eight species, two of which are endemic to this island and Bali; the
best known is the Java Sparrow, now regarded as a threatened species.

Estimate their size

1 2 3 4

1. Great Tit
2. Javan Munia, Scaly-breasted
Munia, White-headed Munia
3. Java Sparrow
4. Asian Golden Weaver
 Lonchura punctulata
Padda oryzivora
Scaly-breasted Munia Java Sparrow
Bondol Peking
Gelatik Jawa
The most widespread of all munias, with eleven races,
this species is found from India to China, and throughout JB
Southeast Asia, as far east as the Tanimbar Islands of
South Maluku. Although first seen in Borneo as recently DISTRIBUTION
as 1974, it is now widespread on the island, after a very
rapid range expansion (Phillipps and Phillipps 2009). It
has also been introduced to Australia, and islands in the
Indian and Pacific Oceans, and Caribbean Sea.
In Baluran it is widespread, but most obvious in paddy
fields, along the edges of forest and
savanna, especially during the dry season. HABITAT USE
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Has similar behavior with the previous
species.
Identification: Upperparts brown, with
dark chestnut face and throat, and
orange-yellow upper tail coverts. Breast
and belly white with black feather edges,
Length: 11 cm Seasonality: Resident giving scaly or scalloped appearance. Native only to Java, Bali and the Kangean Block, around Bilik-Sijile Beach, Balanan,
Status: Least Concern Social: Pairs and small to Voice: Quite noisy. Usual call is soft Islands to the north, the Java Sparrow was Talpat, Keramat, Bekol and even along the
National Law: - large flocks. disyllabic note, repeated: “tit-ti, tit-ti” described in 1971 as “one of the most Batangan-Bekol road. Like most
232

233
Abundance: Very common (Handbook Of The Birds Of The World) or common bird species in the cultivated grassfinches, it frequents open grassland
"ki-dee, ki-deee"(MacKinnon and Phillipps parts of Java”. Sadly this is no longer the and lightly wooded areas, as well as
1993). case, and a recent survey showed that cultivated lands, and like the munias, it
Lonchura maja they had disappeared from 73% of the 64 raids rice crops, as well as maize fields and
historic sites sampled, and estimated a grain stores. It obtains seed while perched
White-headed Munia total population of 109 individuals. This
precipitous decline over four decades has
or on the ground. It is highly social, and
congregates in large roosting flocks. The
Bondol Haji been attributed primarily to intense nest is similar to those of other
Restricted to the Thai-Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java and trapping for the cagebird market. grassfinches in being a bulky grass ball
Bali, this species is similar in habits to the other munias. In Ironically, the species is far more with a side entrance, but unusually, it is
Baluran, it is patchily distributed and less abundant than the numerous outside its native range, having placed in a tree hole, or in urban
other munias. been introduced to many other islands landscapes, under the roofs of buildings
Identification: Mantle, wings, and most of underparts dark (e.g. Borneo, Sulawesi) and countries, such as temples.
brown with chestnut wash, except for reddish-orange such as Singapore, China, Japan, India, Identification: Head black with large white
uppertail coverts and tail, and dark grey wash to breast. Tanzania, and Hawaii. Indeed the current patch on the side of the face. Upperparts
White head, including throat, with greyish nape. Javanese call population of Java is at least partly derived and breast pale bluish-grey, with black tail.
it Emprit Kaji, alludes to its characteristic white head (Kaji is from birds reintroduced from captive or Greyish-pink belly with white vent.
Hajj in English word, person who characterized with white feral populations on other islands and Reddish-pink bill with a white tip, and pink
cap). China. However populations in some of legs.
Voice: Soft, high-pitched “peep” or “preet” when in flocks. these other countries are also declining, Voice: Typical calls are sharp "tik-tik" and
and unfortunately, trapping continues on "tuk". Song is soft
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
Size: 11 cm Sociality: Pairs and small
Java, even in Baluran. Dozens of jingle of high and low Length: 16 cm
Status: Least Concern flocks when nesting, larger confiscated birds were released at Bekol. notes with clucking Status: Vulnerable
Happily the population in the park National Law: -
Law: - flocks at other times and sounds, ending in a Abundance: Rare
Abundance: Rare during rice harvests; often remains high and it can regularly be found drawn-out whistle.
in monsoon forest at Labuhan Merak Seasonality: Resident
Seasonality: Resident with other munias.
Sociality: Flock
 Family Ordo
Ploceidae
Passeriformes
Weavers
A nother large Old World family of finch-like birds, with
116 species, the weavers have a similar global
distribution to the grassfinches (Estrildidae), except
that Africa boasts the vast majority of species, with
only a handful having reached tropical Asia, and none having
Flight
Straight with fast wing
beats.
crossed Wallace's Line. Generally larger and more robust
than the grassfinches, weavers are strongly sexually
dimorphic during the breeding season, when males of most species sport bright red or
yellow patches in their plumage or very large tails (widowbirds) with which to attract
duller-plumaged females. Weavers can be divided into two groups based on their
ecology and social organization. Savanna and grassland-inhabiting species are typically
seed-eaters that are colonial and polygynous. In contrast, forest weavers are mainly
insectivorous, solitary and monogamous. The Asian weavers fit into the first group.
As their name implies, these birds use their amazing weaving skills to construct large
nests that are both a work of art and engineering. Generally, males build the
234
framework of a nest using grass or palm leaves, and display above it to attract females.
Some observation in Baluran show female construct both foundation and completing
the nest building. If she is satisfied with his work, she mates with him, finishes building
the nest, lays eggs and starts incubating them. Meanwhile the male builds another nest
to attract a second female. Successful males have two or even three females, and
defend the nest area from intruder males. Java hosts all three species of weavers that
occur in Indonesia; Baluran has two of them.
Estimate their size
3 4
1 2
1. Great Tit
2. Javan Munia, Scaly-breasted
Munia, White-headed Munia
3. Java Sparrow
4. Asian Golden Weaver
Ploceus manyar
Streaked Weaver
Manyar Jambul
Like the Asian Golden Weaver, this species has a
disjunct distribution, being found in India and Indo-
China in the north, and Java and Bali in the south, but
missing from the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra. The
Streaked Weaver, like its golden counterpart, also
favors wetlands, including reedbeds and rice paddies.
In Baluran, they arrive in small numbers, less than 30,
during January to July, and set up nesting territories
within colonies of Asian Golden Weavers, which
outnumber them. Using strips of reeds or palm leaves,
the males then start building the distinctive retort-
shaped nest, stopping halfway when the nest
resembles a helmet, consisting of a domed cap with a
strap suspended between the sides. They then
perform song flights over their territories, and if they
attract a female, the pair will finish the dome and add
a downward-facing tube as long as 30 cm, before the
female lines the egg chamber with fine grasses, and
lays her clutch. The male then builds new nests to
235
attract additional females, leaving the first female to
care for their brood. The largest numbers are at Gatel
Block. By August, having finished breeding, these birds
leave the Park, except for a few females and might be
juveniles which remain behind for several months.
Identification: In breeding plumage, male has golden-
yellow crown, sharply demarcated from blackish-
brown face and throat. Nape, back, rump and flanks
rusty-brown; wings and tail dark brown with yellowish
edges to feathers. Creamy-white breast and belly,
streaked with dark brown except on vent. Black bill.
Female has dull brown head with dusky streaks except
buffish-yellowish eyebrow and side-neck, and blackish
moustachial streak. Underparts similar to breeding
male, except throat pale yellowish-buff. Bill pinkish.
Non-breeding male similar to female, except yellowish
throat is streaked.
Voice: Male song described as a soft continuous trill of Top: Adult Male with molting plumage;
Bottom: Adult female
high-pitched whistles, ending in wheezy note;
sometimes many males sing in unison. Flight call “chirt- Length: 15 cm
chirt” (Handbook Of The Birds Of The World). Status: Least Concern
DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Mixed flocks with
large Asian Golden Weavers
flocks.
 Ploceus hypoxanthus
1 2 3
Asian Golden Weaver
Manyar Emas

Nest Building 4
Here the males build the
foundations [1][2] of a
ball-shaped nest on a
Bulrush (Typha latifolia)
about 1-2 metres above
water or swampy ground,
and perch above it for long
periods, guarding the nest
and displaying to attract
females. If a female
236

237
accepts a male's nest, she
helps him finish the
construction [3], then lays
her eggs in it. Some cases
in Baluran show females
build the foundation and
completing the nest [4].
Left: Adult Male
Right: Adult Female

This beautiful but rare species has a
restricted and disjunct distribution, which
comprises Indo-China, Sumatra and Java. It
is currently listed by IUCN as Near
Threatened due to ongoing declines
caused by the conversion of its wetland
habitat to agriculture, and persecution.
Previously once widespread on Java, but
now uncommon and localized, it is also
commonly trapped for the bird trade, and
colonies are sometimes robbed and
destroyed. The Asian Golden Weaver
usually stays close to water, inhabiting
marshes, flood plains and rice paddies.
Although believed by many to be
restricted to West Java, the species occurs,
albeit seasonally, in Baluran. Here, on the
eastern limits of its global range, several
large groups of hundreds individuals. They
arrive each year on January to July to
establish nesting colonies. The largest
colony can be found in Gatel Block around
the paddy fields near the edge of the
forest. The colony is shared with Streaked
Weavers. During the nesting period, small
groups, usually 5-8 birds, can be seen
traveling to and from the paddyfields,
presumably harvesting rice or grass seeds
for themselves, as the young are
reportedly fed mainly on invertebrate
animals. Then, by August they are gone
again, with just a few females or juveniles
remaining. Where they go is a mystery.
Identification: In breeding plumage, male
has golden-yellow crown, rump and
underparts; black mask and throat; and
blackish mantle, wings and tail with yellow
edges to feathers; black bill. Female and
juvenile has dark brown upperparts, with
pale edges to feathers; pale brown rump
and nape, the latter with dark streaks; buff
eyebrow and underparts, paler on throat
and center of belly; white vent; and pale
Size: 15 cm
Status: Near Threatened
Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Local migrant or nomad.
Social: Social: Large flocks
pink bill, greyer above. Both sexes have
pink legs. Non-breeding males are similar
to females, except for yellow wash on
eyebrow and underparts, and more boldly
streaked head.
Voice: Call is harsh “chit”; song is said to
be a chatter ending with a long rattle.
Similar to baya weaver, which Hails and
Jarvis (1987) describes as: “chit-chit-chit-
chee-ee-ee-ee”.
HABITAT USE
DISTRIBUTION
 Family
Sturnidae
Starlings, Mynas
T his large Old World family of 112 species is
distributed from northern Europe to islands of the
West Pacific Ocean, with major centers of diversity
in Africa and tropical Asia. They are smallish robust birds
with typically straight, but often chunky, rather crow-like
bills and powerful legs, which are longer in walking,
ground-foraging species that in hopping, tree-dwelling
species. More than most songbird families, starlings and mynas
are generalized omnivores, most species feeding on fruit and
insects, but also on frogs, worms, snails, nectar and seeds,
including cultivated cereal grains. Indeed, many species have
greatly benefitted from agricultural expansion and urbanization,
and are now commensal of humans. Most species are social and
gregarious, and some are among the most abundant of all bird
238
species in the world, forming flocks of thousands, and even,
millions of individuals, particularly at their roost sites. With so
many birds arriving and calling, such roost sites are also very noisy
places. Most starlings have harsh, unmusical songs, but some are
accomplished mimics of the calls of other birds. The hill mynas,
are renowned for their ability to imitate human speech. Sadly this
has led to the trapping of many thousands of these birds for the
cagebird trade. Bali's only endemic bird species, the beautiful Bali
Myna, was so heavily trapped that it is now extinct in the wild,
despite protection under Indonesian law since 1970 and repeated
releases of captive-bred birds. A self-sustaining population has
now been established
on Nusa Penida, off Estimate their size
Bali, although the
species is not native to 1 2
the island. 3 Voice: No song, but frequently call in flight and at
Java is home to six
resident species, and
wintering grounds for
another that migrates
from China; five species
occur in Baluran.
1. Asian Glossy Starling
2. Black-winged Starling
3. Black-naped Oriole
Order Found from north-eastern India through the
Greater Sundas, including Bali, this species
Passeriformes represents one of the largest genera (Aplonis) of
starlings, which are largely forest-dwelling tree-
dwellers of Southeast Asia and the Southwest
Pacific, including many small islands. This bird is a
familiar bird of open areas near forest, including
cities and villages, and particularly fond of coastal
Flight
Swift, direct in Aplonis
coconut groves. It feeds mainly on fruit from a
wide variety of forest and cultivated trees, but
also eats insects and drinks nectar. Like many
other starlings, it is highly gregarious, usually seen
flying swiftly and purposefully in smallish compact
starlings, less so in mynas flocks during the day, but at night, joining together
in communal roosts that number hundreds. Pre-
roost flocks often fly in impressive aerial displays,
wheeling and twisting in unison.
In Baluran, this birds is seasonal visitors in small
numbers to open areas adjacent to forest, such as
at the Central Office complex, where they can be Adult
found each year during May. Here they commonly Immature
perch in Akasia tree (Acacia auriculiformis) in
groups of 4-5 birds, including young birds.
239
Although they do not breed in the park, they are
known to build their rough cup-shaped nest inside
tree holes or the crowns of palms, as well as
under the eaves of houses.
Identification: Adults and immature birds are very
different. Adults are entirely black with an oily-
looking bottle-green gloss, and red eyes.
Asian Glossy Starling Immatures have dark brown upperparts initially,
and white underparts with bold blackish streaks;
yellow or orange eyes. The very similar Short-
tailed Starling (Aplonis minor) which is occurred in
the park differs in being slightly smaller, with a
proportionally shorter tail and less robust bill, and
a purplish, rather than green, gloss to the head
and nape.
roost with repeated short, plaintive, metallic-
Aplonis panayensis
Perling Kumbang
sounding note “tsuu” or shrill “tseeu”, which
when given by many birds produces a loud
cacophony.
Length: 20 cm
Immatures utter a DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE Status: Least Concern
strident "chee- National Law: 1,2
chee-chee" which Abundance: Very rare
is repeated Seasonality: Seasonal visitor
monotonously. Sociality: Family groups or
flocks
 Sturnus melanopterus
Black-winged Starling In
Jalak Putih
Like the Bali Myna, this handsome
species has been the victim of
unsustainable exploitation for the
cagebird trade, as it also has a beautiful
voice. Its restricted range comprises
Java, Bali and the adjacent islands of
Madura and Nusa Penida, as well as
Lombok, where it is probably an
occasional vagrant. Once common on
the plains of East Java and Bali, and
locally common in Central and West
Java, the Black-winged Starling is now
extremely rare, and classified as
240
Critically Endangered owing to
population declines across its former
range. Of 33 historical locations that
were surveyed in 2000, only three were
still occupied, with a total number of
birds being just 32. Baluran is one of two
protected areas in Java that still support
this species, yet because of the high
price these birds fetch poaching has
occurred in the park. The largest group
observed in 2010 contained only 12
individuals, larger than 7 individuals in
2009 and 2 individuals in 2008. Known
to use a variety of habitats, mainly in
agricultural and livestock-grazed areas,
and formerly even urban areas, but in
Baluran, it favours the savanna
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
occasionally visiting the monsoon forest
which abuts it. The species is known to
eat fruit, nectar and insects, for which it
forages both on the ground and in trees.
In the park it may be seen perched on
the backs of banteng or rusa deer, or on
the top of shrubs in the middle of the
savanna, but it prefers to perch in
Tamarinds (Tamarindus sp) and Pilang
(Acacia leucophloea) trees. Like most
mynas and starlings, it nests in holes in
tree trunks.
Identification: White head and
underparts, except for bare yellow skin
241
around eye. Wings and tail are black,
with white patch at base of flight
feathers and tips of tail; mantle and
rump is grey. The main Javan race (S. m.
melanopterus) has white mantle, rump,
and wing coverts, whereas those of the
south-east (S. m. tricolor) and Bali (S. m.
tertius) have grey back and black wing
coverts. Baluran birds resemble the
latter two races, probably.
Voice: Feeding birds utter “kishaa
kishaa”; in flight, a high-pitched whistle
“tsoowee” is the most often heard. Also
harsh notes, “cha cha cha”, with
downward inflection; a hoarse “chok”
(Handbook Of The Birds Of The World).
Length: 23 cm
Status: Critically Endangered
National Law: 1,2
Abundance: Very rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Flocks
 Family Order Oriolus chinensis
Passeriformes
Oriolidae Black-naped Oriole
Kepudang Kuduk-hitam
Orioles
T his is a small homogeneous Old World family of 30
species, most of which are found in sub-Saharan
Africa and tropical Asia, save one species in Eurasia.
Flight With 20 races, this species is the most
variable, and one of the most widespread
of its family. The northernmost race
242
They are medium-sized, slender, and mostly colourful breeds in China and migrates to India and
birds whose main characteristic is a slightly decurved Swift and undulating, Indo-China, but southern races are
strong bill of about the same length as the head, often red with rather slow, resident. The local race occurs from the
or orange in coloration and with a tiny hook at the tip. In powerful wing beats, Thai-Malay Peninsula through to Java and
addition most orioles are immediately recognizable by reminiscent of a as far east as Flores. A familiar bird in
their distinctive song, which is a far-carrying, mellifluous woodpecker; typically parks and gardens of many cities and
and rather flute-like whistle. Indeed the name “oriole” is sweeping upwards with villages, it frequents most wooded
thought to be an onomatopoeic rendition of this song. Like half-opened wings when habitats, especially second growth,
alighting (MacKinnon throughout much of its range, but in Java
the starlings, they are supreme omnivores, eating berries
and Phillipps 1993; it has suffered much from catapults,
and other fruits, and drinking nectar when available, as Mason and Jarvis 1989)
well as feeding on invertebrates of all types, and airguns and the bird trade (Holmes and
occasionally vertebrates, such as birds' eggs and chicks. Nash 1989). In Baluran, it is fairly
However they are exclusively arboreal, mostly hunting high in trees. Many, but not all, widespread, but is not abundant, partly
species are sexually dimorphic, the males being brighter than their mates. Nests are due to pressure from poachers. As a
usually woven bowls, suspended hammock-like in a horizontal fork of a branch high in a consequence of this persecution it is shy
tree. Three species occur in Java, of which only one has crossed Wallace's Line, and and difficult to approach, though easily
only one species that occurs in Baluran. detected by its voice that carries for
considerable distance. Black-naped
Estimate their size
1 3
1. Black-winged Starling 2 HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
2. Black-naped Oriole
3. Javan Cuckooshrike
Orioles are primarily fruit-eaters,
consuming a wide variety of forest and
cultivated fruits, but also take insects and
243
their larvae, usually from the canopy and
middle layers of trees.
Identification: Male is entirely deep
orangey-yellow with black wings and tail,
except for yellow tips to primary covert
and tail feathers, and black mask and
crown, except for forehead. Female is
similar but has olive wash on mantle. Red
eye and deep pink bill.
Voice: A rich, mellow, and rather
melancholy flute-like song rendered as
"leeuw-klee-Lee-tee-leeuw" or “toodle-
oo-oo, toodle-oo-oo” (Mason and Jarvis
1989) or “too-dlee-oo” (Handbook Of The
Birds Of The World; Hails and Jarvis 1987)
or “o-ri-ol-lo” (Holmes and Nash 1989).
Also a loud call rather like a wolf whistle
(Mason and Jarvis 1989).
Length: 20 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary, pairs
 Family Order
Passeriformes
Dicruridae

Black Drongo
Drongos

Dicrurus macrocercus
E asily recognized by their black plumage, Flight

Srigunting Hitam
and distinctly long, typically forked tail,
the drongos constitute a very
homogeneous Old World family of 26 species,
the majority of which are to be found in tropical Agile and maneuverable, capable
and subtropical regions of Africa, India and of aerial acrobatics while foraging;
Southeast Asia. Though traditionally grouped in normal flight, shallow, rather
with orioles and crows, molecular-genetic slow wingbeats. Shallow
studies have shown that these families are undulating.
phylogenetically unrelated to drongos, whose Migratory in the northern parts of its In Baluran it has a wide distribution but
closest relatives are the monarchs and fantails. Drongos are also characterized by their range, the Black Drongo is found from prefers savannas and the edge of monsoon
upright stance, and a stout, arched, black bill with a hooked tip and with well- India and eastern China through Southeast forests, as well as rice field bordering the
developed rictal bristles at its base. They are mainly insectivorous, and like flycatchers, Asia to Java and Bali. Whilst most other park. Like the Ashy Drongo and White-
typically hunt by watching from a prominent perch, then darting out after insects, such drongos are denizens of the forest, this breasted Woodswallow, this species is
244

species favours dry open country with few
as cicadas and dragonflies, and often chasing them in the air, before returning to their
trees, such as agricultural land. Here it
launch pad. Other foraging techniques include snatching insects from foliage,
perches on wires and posts, sallying out to
sometimes whilst hovering, and swooping onto tree trunks or, occasionally, even the seize insects on the wing, especially
ground. Drongos often associate with mammals to capture prey that are flushed by grasshoppers and dragonflies. They often
them. More frequently, however, they join and even attract other birds in mixed ride on the backs of Rusa deer, Banteng or
species flocks, sometimes by mimicking their calls. The feeding success of drongos has water buffaloes, diving after prey flushed
been shown to clearly increase when following other species. Yet it not a parasitic by their movements. This species is also
relationship as drongos provide “sentinel” services through their raucous alarm calls, known to eat ticks from the backs or ears
warning other species of the approach of a predator. Drongos, themselves, appear of mammals, thereby removing annoying
fearless, often boldly and aggressively attacking predators much larger than and potential dangerous ectoparasites. In
themselves, especially when defending their nests, which are shallow bowls suspended parts of its range, it joins flocks of ground-
in a forked branch. Of the 26 species worldwide, six occur in Java, and four of these dwelling birds such as mynas, hawking
occur in Baluran. insects flushed by them, and occasionally
even stealing their food, though in return
Estimate their size 1 2 3
for such favours, it may provide warning of
1. Black Drongo predators with its alarm calls. In addition
2. Ashy Drongo to insects, it is known to eat earthworms,
3. Racket-tailed Treepie
and even lizards.
HABITAT USE
245
attracted to forest fires and areas of
burning grass, where it congregates in
small numbers to grab insects escaping the
heat and flames, often daringly swooping
down into thick smoke. Drive out larger
birds such as eagles from their territory.
Identification: Distinguished from other
drongos by tiny bill and very long, deeply
forked tail. Entirely black with a slight
steel-blue gloss, except on face which is
dull black. Red eye. Juveniles are browner
over much of the body, and have white
edges to the feathers of the vent.
Voice: Strident, harsh, sometimes metallic-
sounding calls, including "oh-leeu-leeu,
eleeu-wit-wit" or "hok-chok-wak-wee-
wak" (MacKinnon and Phillipps 1993), as
well as occasional musical notes.
DISTRIBUTION Length: 29 cm
Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary or pairs
246
Dicrurus leucophaeus Like the Black Drongo this species has a
Ashy Drongo wide distribution, from India and China
through Southeast Asia as far as Lombok,
but is more variable with 14 races, of
Srigunting Kelabu
which the northernmost are migratory. It
is exceptional in having grey, rather than
black, plumage. Common in open forests
and on the forest edge, it typically
perches high on an exposed branch, from
which it sallies to seize passing insects or
swoops down to snatch insects off the
foliage. When breeding these birds are
aggressive towards any bird passing near
their nest, but they also fearlessly mob
predators such as crows at any time.
In Baluran the Ashy Drongo occupies all
forest types, but avoids open habitats
such as savannas, where the Black
247
Drongo occurs, but is apparently more abundant
than the latter. Like the Black Drongo as well as
the White-breasted Woodswallow, it is attracted
to dry season forest fires where escaping insects
DISTRIBUTION
provide easy pickings, and will often forage
alongside these species, occasionally diving
amongst the thick smoke, and even flames.
Identification: Entirely ashy-grey with black HABITAT USE
forehead and chin. Deeply forked tail with outer
feathers slightly flaring outwards and upwards.
Eye orange-red.
Voice: Vocal, with varied calls. Loud, thrush-like
"heeur-eeur-cheleeu" or "peet wee, wee-peet” Length: 29 cm
(MacKinnon and Phillipps 1993). In Bali, “tjeep Status: Least Concern
tjurr-tjurr, tjeep tjurr-tjurr” interspersed with National Law: -
Abundance: Common
shrike-like rasps and squeals, and rapid reels of 7- Seasonality: Resident
8 notes up and down the scale (Mason and Jarvis Sociality: Solitary or pairs
1989).
 Family Order Length: 18 cm

Artamidae Passeriformes Status: Least Concern

National Law: -
Abundance: Common
Seasonality: Resident
Woodswallows Social: Flocks

N amed after true swallows

(Hirundinidae) because of their
aerial-feeding habits, the
woodswallows differ from that family
in many respects, and the two groups are
Flight

Agile, aerobatic. Fast shallow wing

beats, interspersed with short
glides while feeding; long glides
totally unrelated. In contrast to the slim when soaring on thermals.
swallows with their tiny bills, long wings and
forked tails, woodswallows are stocky or
“chunky” birds with thick, almost conical blue-grey bills, shortish and distinctly Artamus leucorynchus
triangular-shaped wings and relatively short, square-cut tails. Moreover this small
family of 11 species is mainly restricted to Australasia, where it presumable arose, White-breasted Woodswallow
although one or more forms obviously crossed Wallace's Line to the west, and one Kekep Babi
species is now confined to the Asian mainland. Although woodswallows capture
most of their insect prey on the wing, either while circling high in the sky or during
248

dashing sorties from an exposed perch, they will also dive onto the ground, By far the most widespread member of its
especially when prolonged windy conditions prevent insects from flying. In family, this species is found through the
addition, many Australian species regularly feed on floral nectar, facilitated by their whole of Indonesia and the Philippines to
brush-tipped tongues. Woodswallows are highly social and flocks can be seen New Caledonia in the Southwest Pacific, as
huddling together, side-by-side, on a wire or branch, during both the day and night. well as much of Australia. It is a common
One species occurs in Java. bird of open country with scattered trees,
including cultivated land and urban
Estimate their size landscapes, such as Jakarta. It is usually
seen circling above the treetops,
1 2 3 4
sometimes with true swallows, or perched
on electrical or telephone cables, aerials,
1. Grey-rumped Treeswift fences and bare trees, often in large
2. Chesnut-headed Flycatcher
3. Barn Swallow numbers. In some parts of its range, it
4. White-breasted Woodswallow attends herds of cattle or water buffalo,
taking advantage of insects they flush
while moving. Highly social and
gregarious, large numbers of these birds
HABITAT USE DISTRIBUTION
249
huddle together, side-by-side, along a wire
or branch not only when roosting, but also
during the heat of the day, when they also
regularly preen each other. They
characteristically waggle their tails when
excited or agitated.
In Baluran, the White-breasted
Woodswallow is widespread, favouring
savannas, paddyfields, and areas of
human habitation. Like the drongos, this
bird is attracted to forest fires during the
dry season, as the fleeing insects provide
easy meals. They are also fearlessly
aggressive towards predators, and will
pursue and chase away large raptors from
the vicinity of their nests.
Identification: Entirely dark slate-grey
except for white rump and underparts,
below throat. Pale blue-grey bill.
Voice: Scolding "cheeuwt cheeuwt
cheeuwt" (repeated 2-3 times), given
often in flight. Also nasal chattering with
mimicry of other bird species.
 Racket-tailed Treepie
Tangkar Centrong
Family

Crypsirina temia
Order The Racket-tailed Treepie differs from other treepies by having ten,
rather than the normal twelve tail feathers, the spoon-shaped tips to
Passeriformes
Corvidae the central pair giving the species its name. It has a disjunct distribution,
being found in Indo-China on the Asian mainland to the northwest, and
Java and Bali to the southeast, but missing or extremely localized on
Crows, Jays, Magpies islands in between.
In Baluran this shy species is usually found in monsoon forest or
mangroves, skulking about in the lower and middle layers of trees, as

A Flight
mong the most successful of all songbird
families, the Corvidae comprise 123 species
that are spread throughout the world,
many of which have adapted so well to
Direct, usually with slow wing
man-made habitats that they have become beats
commensal of humans, and are considered pests in
some densely-populated cities. Famous as a group for their intelligence, several
forest species are known to manufacture and use stick “tools” to reach inaccessible
prey, while one city-dwelling species has learnt to take advantage of cars on busy
streets to crush nuts, as well as to avoid being crushed themselves by using
pedestrian crossings! Most members of the family are medium to large in size, and
have stout bills with a characteristic tuft of bristles that extends to the nostril
openings, as well as long, powerful legs. Whilst crows are predominantly black in
250
well as dense shrubs and vine tangles. Rather like a malkoha, when
disturbed it flies only a short distance to the next patch of cover. The
flight is distinctive, with frequent dips, each terminated by an upward
jerk (Handbook Of The Birds Of The World). Its diet is poorly known, but
includes invertebrates, and probably fruits.
Identification: Entire body black, with bronze-green gloss except for
face. Short, stout bills with a curved upper mandible, and a cushion of
short, soft feathers over the forehead and lores (Handbook Of The Birds
Of The World). Blue eyes.
Voice: Deep, rasping double note "syeot-syeot", from which the species
derives its local name of "Seot".

251
plumage, many of the jays and magpies are very colorful. Omnivorous and
supremely opportunistic, they eat anything from invertebrates and vertebrates of
all kinds, including small mammals, bird nestlings, and carrion, to fruits and nectar.
In cities and villages, they are best known as scavengers of human refuse. Social
organization is varied among members of the family, but most species are
gregarious, and some form communal roosts containing thousands of birds. Calls
are similarly variable among species, some having over 20 different calls each use
in different contexts, and ranging from guttural squawks to melodious songs. Nests
tend to be bulky stick platforms.
Six members of this family occur in Java, of which one is introduced (House Crow);
three native species are found in Baluran.
DISTRIBUTION

Estimate their size

1. Ashy Drongo
1 2 3 2. Racket-tailed Treepie
3. Slender-billed Crow

Length: 35 cm HABITAT USE

Status: Least Concern
National Law: -
Abundance: Rare
Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Solitary
 Corvus enca
Slender-billed Crow
Gagak Hutan
252
The Slender-billed Crow is one of two
similar-looking widespread species found
on Java, the other being the Large-billed
Crow C. macrorhychos. The latter has
adapted very well to man-made
landscapes, such as villages, agricultural
land and plantations, whereas the former
is primarily a forest bird, although it too
takes advantage of anthropogenic habitats
where the larger, dominant species is
absent. The vast majority of the range of
the Slender-billed Crow is in Indonesia,
from the western tip of Sumatra to
Sulawesi and the Moluccas, while that of
the Large-billed Crow extends from India
to Timor. Though the latter was formerly
common in Java, it is now more localized
(Holmes and Nash 1989).
In Baluran, it inhabits to coastal forest or
evergreen forest with a dense canopy.
However, the park's population is believed
to be far lower than in previous years,
because of high levels of hunting. Crows
are believed to have magical powers to the
shamans, the reason why they are
persecuted. Because of such persecution it
is a very shy bird, difficult to approach.
This species feeds mainly on fruits, such as
those of the Gebang Palm (Corypha utan)
and fig trees, but is also known to forage
253
on the ground for both invertebrates DISTRIBUTION HABITAT USE
and vertebrates. Like most crows it is
inclined to be pugnacious, and does
not readily share food sources with
other species, even frightening off birds
like the Oriental Pied Hornbill.
Identification: A large all-black bird Length: 45 cm
with a faint purple gloss on head and Status: Least Concern
upperparts. National Law: -
Voice: Generally noisy. Main call a Abundance: Rare
harsh “kak kak kak”, especially in flight; Seasonality: Resident
Sociality: Pairs or small flocks
higher-pitched and more nasal than
that of the Large-billed Crow.
 Photographers Credit
Sutadi
Equipment: Nikon D200 + Sigma Sigma for Nikon 170-500 mm f/5.6-6 DG APO
Photos: Chinese Egret [37]; Crested Hawk-Eagle (light morph 2nd from right) [59];
Peregrine Falcon [63]; Green Imperial Pigeon [104]; Oriental Dollarbird [142];
Coppersmith Barbet (nest building) [151]; Common Goldenback [154]; Great Slaty
Woodpecker [155]; White-bellied Woodpecker [156]; Yellow-rumped Flycatcher
[206]; Black-naped Oriole [242]; Slender-billed Crow [252, 253].
Indra Arinal
Equipment: Canon PowerShot G10: 15MP & 28mm
Photo: Oriental Plover [78].
Imam Taufiqurrahman
Equipment: Nikon D60 + Nikon AF Nikkor 70-300mm f/4-5.6D ED
Photo: Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher [132].
Adhy Maruly
Equipment: Nikon D200 + Sigma Sigma for Nikon 170-500 mm f/5.6-6 DG APO
Photos: Orange-breasted Trogon [128]; Chestnut-headed Bee-eater [140].
254
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 258

Appendix 1. Checklist of Baluran National Park

No Scientific Name English Name Indonesian Name Source EN IUCN

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

Fregatidae
1 Fregata ariel Lesser Figatebird Cikalang Kecil x x x
2 Fregata andrewsi Christmas Frigatebird Cikalang Christmast x CR
Sulidae
3 Sula leucogaster Brown Booby Angsabatu Coklat x x
Ardeidae
4 Ardea cinerea Grey Heron Cangak Abu x x x
5 Ardea sumatrana Great-billed Heron Cangak Laut x x x
6 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron Cangak Merah x x x
7 Egretta intermedia Intermediate Egret Kuntul Perak x x
8 Egretta garzetta Little Egret Kuntul Kecil x x x x
9 Egretta eulophotes Chinese Egret Kuntul Cina x VU
10 Egretta sacra Pacific Reef Egret Kuntul Karang x x x
11 Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret Kuntul Kerbau x x
12 Ardeola speciosa Javan Pond-heron Blekok Sawah x x x x
13 Butorides striatus Striated Heron Kokokan Laut x x x x
14 Gorsachius Melanolophus Malayan Night-heron Kowak Melayu x
15 Ixobrychus sinensis Yellow Bittern Bambangan Kuning x
Ciconiidae
16 Mycteria cinerea Milky Stork Bangau Bluwok x x
17 Ciconia episcopus Woolly-necked Stork Bangau Sandang-lawe x x VU
18 Leptoptilos javanicus Lesser Adjutant Bangau Tongtong x x x x
Accipitridae VU
19 Pandion haliaetus Osprey Elang Tiram x x x x
20 Pernis ptilorhyncus Oriental Honey-buzzard Sikep Madu Asia x x x x
21 Elanus caeruleus Black-winged Kite Elang Tikus x x x x

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

22 Haliaetus leucogaster White-bellied Sea-eagle Elanglaut Perut-putih x x x

23 Circaetus gallicus Short-toed Eagle Elangular Jari Pendek x x x x
24 Spilornis cheela Crested Serpent-eagle Elangular Bido x x x
25 Accipiter trivirgatus Crested Goshawk Elangalap Jambul x x x
26 Accipiter soloensis Chinese Goshawk Elangalap Cina x
27 Accipiter gularis Japanese Sparrowhawk Elangalap Nipon x
28 Ictinaetus malayensis Black eagle Elang Hitam x x x
29 Hieraaetus kieneri Rufous-bellied Eagle Elang Perut-karat x x
30 Nisaetus cirrhatus Changeable Hawk-eagle Elang Brontok x x x
31 Nisaetus bartelsi Javan Hawk-Eagle Elang Jawa x J EN
Falconidae
32 Microhierax fringillarius Black-thighed Falconet Alapalap Capung x x
33 Falco moluccensis Spotted Kestrel Alapalap Sapi x x x x In
34 Falco severus Oriental Hobby Alapalap Macan x x x
35 Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon Alapalap Kawah x x
Anatidae
36 Dendrocygna arcuata Wandering Whistling-duck Belibis Kembang x x
37 Dendrocygna javanica Lesser Whistling-duck Bebilis Polos x
38 Anas cf gibberifrons Sunda Teal Itik Benjut x x In
Megapodiidae
39 Coturnix chinensis Blue-breasted Quail Puyuh Batu x x x
Phasianidae
40 Gallus gallus Red Junglefowl Ayamhutan Merah x x x x
41 Green Junglefowl Green Junglefowl Ayamhutan Hijau x x x x In
42 Green Peafowl Green Peafowl Merak Hijau x x x x EN
Turnicidae
43 Turnix suscitator Barred Button-quail Gemak Loreng x x x x
Gruidae
44 Amaurornis phoenicurus White-breasted Waterhen Kareo Padi x x x
45 Gallinula chloropus Common Moorhen Mandar Batu x x

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No Scientific Name English Name Indonesian Name Source EN IUCN

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

Charadriidae
46 Pluvialis fulva Pacific Golden Plover Cerek Kernyut x
47 Charadrius dubius Little Ringed Plover Cerek Kalung-kecil x
48 Charadrius javanicus Javan Plover Cerek Jawa x x In NT
49 Charadrius veredus Oriental Plover Cerek Asia x
Scolopacidae
50 Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel Gajahan Penggala x x x
51 Numenius arquata Eurasian Curlew Gajahan Erasia x x
52 Tringa stagnatilis Marsh Sandpiper Trinil Rawa x x
53 Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper Trinil Semak x x x
54 Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper Trinil Pantai x x x x
55 Heteroscelus brevipes Grey-tailed Tattler Trinil Ekor-kelabu x
56 Gallinago stenura Pin-tailed Snipe Berkik Ekorlidi x
57 Phalaropus lobatus Red-necked Phalarope Kakirumbai Kecil x
Recurvirostridae
58 Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt Gagangbayang Belang x
Burhinidae
59 Esacus neglectus Beach Stone Curlew Wiliwili Besar x x x NT
Stercorariidae
60 Stercorarius cf pomarinus Pomarine Jaeger Camarkejar Pomarin x
Sternidae
61 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern Daralaut Kumis x
62 Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern Daralaut Tiram x
63 Sterna hirundo Common Tern Daralaut Biasa x
64 Sterna sumatrana Black-naped Tern Daralaut Tengkuk-hitam x x
65 Sterna anaethetus Bridled Tern Daralaut Batu x

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

66 Sterna albifrons Little Tern Daralaut Kecil x

67 Sterna bergii Swift Tern Daralaut Jambul x x x
68 Sterna bengalensis Lesser Crested Tern Daralaut Benggala x x
Columbidae
69 Treron griseicauda Grey-cheeked Green Pigeon Punai Penganten x x x x In
70 Treron vernans Pink-necked Green Pigeon Punai Gading x x x x
71 Treron bicincta Orange-breasted Green Pigeon Punai Siam x x
72 Ducula aenea Green Imperial Pigeon Pergam Hijau x x x x
73 Ducula bicolor Pied Imperial Pigeon Pergam Laut x x x
74 Macropygia emiliana Ruddy Cuckoo-dove Uncal Buau x x x x In
75 Macropygia ruficeps Little Cuckoo Dove Uncal Kouran x x x
76 Streptopelia bitorquata Island Collared Dove Dederuk Jawa x x x x
77 Streptopelia chinensis Spotted Dove Tekukur Biasa x x x x
78 Geopelia striata Zebra Dove Perkutut Jawa x x x x
79 Chalcophaps indica Emerald Dove Delimukan Zamrud x x x
Psittacidae
80 Psittacula alexandri Red-breasted Parakeet Betet Biasa x x x
81 Loriculus pusillus Yellow-breasted Hanging-parrot Serindit Jawa x x x JB NT
Cuculidae
82 Cuculus cf fugax Hodgson's Hawk-cuckoo Kangkok Melayu x
83 Cuculus cf saturatus Oriental Cuckoo Kangkok Ranting x x
84 Cacomantis sonneratii Banded Bay Cuckoo Wiwik Lurik x
85 Cacomantis merulinus Plaintive Cuckoo Wiwik Kelabu x
86 Cacomantis sepulcralis Rusty-breasted Cuckoo Wiwik Uncuing x x x
87 Surniculus lugubris Drongo Cuckoo Kedasi Hitam x
88 Eudynamys scolopaceus Asian Koel Tuwur Asia x x
89 Zanclostomus javanicus Red-billed Malkoha Kadalan Kembang x x x
90 Rhamphococcyx curvirostris Chestnut-breasted Malkoha Kadalan Birah x x x
91 Centropus sinensis Greater Coucal Bubut Besar x x
92 Centropus nigrorufus Sunda Coucal Bubut Jawa x x J VU

261
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No Scientific Name English Name Indonesian Name Source EN IUCN

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

93 Centropus bengalensis Lesser Coucal Bubut Alang-alang x x x x

Tytonidae
94 Tyto alba Barn Owl Serak Jawa x x x x
95 Phodilus badius Oriental Bay Owl Serak Bukit x
Strigidae
96 Otus lempiji Collared Scops-Owl Celepuk Reban x x x
97 Ketupa ketupu Buffy Fish-owl Beluk Ketupa x x
98 Glaucidium castanopterum Javan Owlet Belukwatu Jawa x JB
99 Strix seloputo Spotted Wood-owl Kukuk Selaputo x x x x
Caprimulgidae
100 Caprimulgus macrurus Large-tailed Nightjar Cabak Maling x x x x
101 Caprimulgus affinis Savanna Nightjar Cabak Kota x x x x
Apodidae
102 Collocalia fuciphagus Edible-nest Swift Walet Sarang-putih x x x x
103 Collocalia maximus Black-nest Swiftlet Walet Sarang-hitam x x
104 Collocalia linchi Cave Swiftlet Walet Linci x x x
105 Hirundapus caudacutus White-throated Needletail Kapinisjarum Asia x x
106 Rhaphidura leucopygialis Silver-rumped Swift Kapinisjarum Kecil x x x
107 Apus pacificus Fork-tailed Swift Kapinis Laut x x
108 Apus nipalensis House Swift Kapinis Rumah x x x x
109 Cypsiurus balasiensis Asian Palm-swift Waletpalem Asia x x
Hemiprocnidae
110 Hemiprocne longipennis Grey-rumped Tree-swift Tepekong Jambul x x x x
Trogonidae
111 Harpactes oreskios Orange-breasted Trogon Luntur Harimau x

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

Alcedinidae
112 Alcedo meninting Blue-eared Kingfisher Rajaudang Meninting x
113 Alcedo coerulescens Small Blue Kingfisher Rajaudang Biru x x x x In
114 Ceyx erithaca Oriental Dwarf Kingfisher Udang Api x
115 Pelargopsis capensis Stork-billed Kingfisher Pekaka Emas x x
116 Lacedo pulchella Banded Kingfisher Cekakak Batu x
117 Halcyon coromanda Ruddy Kingfisher Cekakak Merah x
118 Halcyon pileata Black-capped Kingfisher Cekakak Cina x
119 Halcyon cyanoventris Javan Kingfisher Cekakak Jawa x x x JB
120 Halcyon sancta Sacred Kingfisher Cekakak Australia x x
121 Halcyon chloris Collared Kingfisher Cekakak Sungai x x x x
Meropidae
122 Merops leschenaulti Chestnut-headed Bee-eater Kirikkirik Senja x x x x
123 Merops philippinus Blue-tailed Bee-eater Kirikkirik Laut x x x x
Coraciidae
124 Eurystomus orientalis Oriental Dollarbird Tionglampu Biasa x
Bucerotidae
125 Rhyticeros undulatus Wreathed Hornbill Julang Emas x x x x
126 Anthracoceros albirostris Asian Pied Hornbill Kangkareng Perut-putih x x x x
127 Buceros rhinoceros Rhinoceros Hornbill Enggang Cula x x x NT
Capitonidae
128 Megalaima lineata Lineated Barbet Takur Bultok x x x x
129 Megalaima javensis Black-banded Barbet Takur Tulung tumpuk x x x x JB NT
130 Megalaima australis Blue-eared Barbet Takur Tenggeret x x x x
131 Megalaima haemacephala Coppersmith Barbet Takur Ungkut-ungkut x x x
Picidae
132 Picus vittatus Laced Woodpecker Pelatuk Hijau x
133 Picus puniceus Crimson-winged Woodpecker Pelatuk Sayap-merah x x
134 Dinopium javanense Common Goldenback Pelatuk Besi x x x

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No Scientific Name English Name Indonesian Name Source EN IUCN

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

135 Mulleripicus pulverulentus Great Slaty Woodpecker Pelatuk Kelabu-besar x x VU

136 Dryocopus javensis White-bellied Woodpecker Pelatuk Ayam x x
137 Dendrocopus macei Fulvous-breasted Woodpecker Caladi Ulam x x
138 Dendrocopus moluccensis Sunda Pygmy Woodpecker Caladi Tilik x x x x
139 Chrysocolaptes lucidus Greater Goldenback Pelatuk Tunggir-emas x
Eurylaimidae
140 Eurylaimus javanicus Banded Broadbill Sempurhujan Rimba x
Pittidae
141 Hydrornis guajanus Javan Banded Pitta Paok Pancawarna x x JB
Alaudidae
142 Mirafra javanica Singing Bushlark Branjangan Jawa x x x
Hirundinidae
143 Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow Layanglayang Asia x x x x
144 Hirundo tahitica Pacific Swallow Layanglayang Batu x x x x
145 Hirundo striolata Striated Swallow Layanglayang Loreng x x x x
Motacillidae
146 Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail Kicuit Kerbau x x
147 Anthus rufulus Paddyfield Pipit Apung Tanah x x x x
Campephagidae
148 Coracina javensis Javan Cuckooshrike Kepudangsungu Jawa x x x x
149 Lalage nigra Pied Triller Kapasan Kemiri x x x
150 Lalage sueuri White-shouldered Triller Kapasan Sayap putih x x x x
151 Pericrocotus cinnamomeus Small Minivet Sepah Kecil x x x x
152 Pericrocotus flammeus Scarlet Minivet Sepah Hutan x x x x
153 Hemipus hirundinaceus Black-winged Flycatchershrike Jingjing Batu x x x x
154 Tephrodornis virgatus Large Woodshrike Jingjing Petulak x x x

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

Aegithinidae
155 Aegithina tiphia Common Iora Cipoh Kacat x x x x
Chloropseidae
156 Chloropsis sonnerati Greater Green Leafbird Cicadaun Besar x x
157 Chloropsis cochinchinensis Blue-winged Leafbird Cicadaun Sayap-biru x x x
Pycnonotidae
158 Pycnonotus atriceps Black-headed Bulbul Cucak Kuricang x x x
159 Pycnonotus dispar Ruby-throated Bulbul Cucak Kuning x x x In
160 Pycnonotus aurigaster Sooty-headed Bulbul Cucak Kutilang x x x x
161 Pycnonotus goiavier Yellow-vented Bulbul Merbah Cerukcuk x x x x
162 Pycnonotus plumosus Olive-winged Bulbul Merbah Belukar x x
163 Pycnonotus simplex Cream-vented Bulbul Merbah Corok-corok x x x
164 Alophoixus bres Grey-cheeked Bulbul Empuloh Jenggot x x x x
Laniidae
165 Lanius cristatus Brown Shrike Bentet Coklat x
166 Lanius schach Long-tailed Shrike Bentet Kelabu x x x x
Turdidae
167 Copsychus saularis Oriental Magpie-Robin Kucica Kampung x x x x
168 Copsychus malabaricus White-rumped Shama Kucica Hutan x
169 Enicurus leschenaulti White-crowned Forktail Meninting Besar x x x
170 Zoothera citrina Orange-headed Thrush Anis Merah x
Timaliidae
171 Pellorneum capistratum Black-capped Babbler Pelanduk Topi-hitam x x
172 Trichastoma sepiarium Horsfield’s Babbler Pelanduk Semak x x x x In
173 Turdinus macrodactyla Large Wren-Babbler Berencet Besar x NT
174 Stachyris melanothorax Crescent-chested Babbler Tepus Pipi-perak x JB
175 Macronous flavicollis Grey-cheeked Tit-Babbler Ciungair Jawa x x J
176 Timalia pileata Chestnut-capped Babbler Tepus Gelagah x x

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No Scientific Name English Name Indonesian Name Source EN IUCN

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

Sylviidae
177 Cisticola juncidis Zitting Cisticola Cici Padi x x x x
178 Cisticola exilis Golden-headed Cisticola Cici Merah x x x
179 Prinia polychroa Brown Prinia Perenjak Coklat x x x x
180 Prinia familiaris Bar-winged Prinia Perenjak Jawa x x x x In
181 Prinia flaviventris Yellow-bellied Prinia Perenjak Rawa x
182 Prinia inornata Plain Prinia Perenjak Padi x x x
183 Orthotomus sutorius Common Tailorbird Cinenen Pisang x x x
184 Orthotomus sepium Olive-backed Tailorbird Cinenen Jawa x x x JB
185 Phylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler Cikrak Kutub x x x
Muscicapidae
186 Saxicola caprata Pied Bush Chat Decu Belang x x x
187 Ficedula zanthopygia Yellow-rumped Flycatcher Sikatan Emas x x
188 Ficedula mugimaki Mugimaki Flycatcher Sikatan Mugimaki x x
189 Cyornis banyumas Hill Blue Flycatcher Sikatan Cacing x x x
190 Cyornis rufigastra Mangrove Blue Flycatcher Sikatan Bakau x x
Acanthizidae
191 Gerygone sulphurea Golden-bellied Geryone Remetuk Laut x x x x
Monarchidae
192 Hypothymis azurea Black-naped Monarch Kehicap Ranting x x x
Rhipiduridae
193 Rhipidura javanica Pied Fantail Kipasan Belang x x x x
Pachycephalidae
194 Pachycephala grisola Mangrove Whistler Kancilan Bakau x x
Paridae
195 Parus major Great Tit Gelatikbatu Kelabu x x x x

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

Sittidae
196 Sitta frontalis Velvet-fronted Nuthatch Munguk Beledu x
Dicaeidae
197 Dicaeum trochileum Scarlet-headed Flowerpecker Cabai Jawa x x x In
Nectariniidae
198 Anthreptes malacensis Brown-throated Sunbird Burungmadu Kelapa x x x x
199 Anthreptes singalensis Ruby-cheeked Sunbird Burungmadu Belukar x x x
200 Cinnyris jugularis Olive-backed Sunbird Burungmadu Sriganti x x x x
201 Arachnothera longirostra Little Spiderhunter Pijantung Kecil x x x
202 Arachnothera robusta Long-billed Spiderhunter Pijantung Besar x x
203 Arachnothera affinis Streaky-breasted Spiderhunter Pijantung Gunung x
Zosteropidae
204 Zosterops palpebrosus Oriental White-eye Kacamata Biasa x x x
Estrildidae
205 Lonchura leucogastroides Javan Munia Bondol Jawa x x x In
206 Lonchura punctulata Scaly-breasted Munia Bondol Peking x x x
207 Lonchura maja White-headed Munia Bondol Haji x x x
208 Padda oryzivora Java Sparrow Gelatik Jawa x x x JB VU
Ploceidae
209 Passer montanus Eurasian Tree Sparrow Burung Gereja Erasia x x x
210 Ploceus hypoxanthus Asian Golden Weaver Manyar Emas x x NT
211 Ploceus manyar Streaked Weaver Manyar Jambul x x x x
Sturnidae
212 Aplonis minor Short-tailed Starling Perling Kecil x x
213 Aplonis panayensis Asian Glossy Starling Perling Kumbang x x x
214 Sturnus contra Asian Pied Starling Jalak Suren x x x
215 Sturnus melanopterus Black-winged Starling Jalak Putih x x x x In CR
216 Acridotheres javanicus White-vented Myna Kerak Kerbau x x x
Oriolidae
217 Oriolus chinensis Black-naped Oriole Kepudang Kuduk-hitam x x x x

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No Scientific Name English Name Indonesian Name Source EN IUCN

1 2 3 4 A B C D E F

Dicruridae
218 Dicrurus macrocercus Black Drongo Srigunting Hitam x x x x
219 Dicrurus leucophaeus Ashy Drongo Srigunting Kelabu x x x
220 Dicrurus hottentottus Hair-crested Drongo Srigunting Jambul-rambut x x x
221 Dicrurus paradiseus Greater Racket-tailed Drongo Srigunting Batu x
Artamidae
222 Artamus leucorhyncus White-breasted Woodswallow Kekep Babi x x x x
Corvidae
223 Crypsirina temia Racket-tailed Treepie Tangkar Centrong x x x x
224 Corvus enca Slender-billed Crow Gagak Hutan x x x x
225 Corvus macrorhynchos Large-billed Crow Gagak Kampung x x x

Appendix 2. List of unconfirmed species reported from Baluran NP

No Scientific Name English Name Indonesian Name Source

1 2 3 4 A B C D
1 Puffinus pacificus Wedge-tailed Shearwater Pengguntinglaut Pasifik x
2 Phalacrocorax niger Little Cormorant Pecukpadi Kecil x
3 Ardea novaehollandiae White-faced Heron Kuntul Australia x
4 Accipiter virgatus Besra Elangalap Besra x x
5 Arborophila orientalis Grey-breasted Partridge Puyuhgonggong Biasa x x
6 Turnix sylvatica Small Button-quail Gemak Tegalan x
7 Charadrius peronii Malaysian Plover Cerek Melayu x x
8 Calidris alba Sanderling Kedidi Putih
9 Ptilinopus melanospila Black-naped Fruit-dove Walik Kembang x
10 Trichoglossus haematodus Rainbow Lorikeet Perkici Pelangi x

1 2 3 4 A B C D

11 Clamator coromandus Chestnut-winged Cuckoo Bubutpacar Jambul x x

12 Bubo sumatranus Barred Eagle-Owl Beluk Jempuk x
13 Coracina fimbriata Lesser Cuckooshrike Kepudangsngu Kecil x
14 Pycnonotus bimaculatus Orange-spotted Bulbul Cucak Gunung x x
15 Dicaeum trigonostigma Orange-bellied Flowerpecker Cabai Bunga-api x x
16 Irena puella Asian Fairy Bluebird Kecembang Gadung x x
17 Seicercus grammiceps Sunda Warbler Cikrak Muda x x
18 Ficedula westermanni Little Pied Flycatcher Sikatan Belang x
19 Lonchura ferruginosa White-capped Munia Bondol Oto-hitam x
20 Gracula religiosa Hill Myna Tiong Emas x x
23 Gallinago megala Swinhoe's Snipe Berkik Rawa x
24 Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe Berkik Ekor-kipas x
25 Treron olax Little Green Pigeon Punai Kecil x
26 Megalaima armillaris Flame-fronted Barbet Takur Tohtor x
27 Coracina striata Bar-bellied Cuckooshrike Kepudangsungu Sumatera x
28 Myophonus glaucinus Sunda Whistling Thrush Ciungbatu Kecil x
29 Myophonus caeruleus Blue Whistling Thrush Ciungbatu Siul x
30 Orthotomus ruficep Ashy Tailorbird Cinenen Kelabu x x
31 Rhinomyias olivacea Fulvous-chested Jungle Flycatcher Sikatanrimba Dada-coklat x
32 Ficedula dumetoria Rufous-chested Flycatcher Sikatan Dada-merah x
33 Zosterops chloris Lemon-bellied White-eye Kacamata Laut x

Annotation
Sources:
A: Hoogerwerf (1948, 1972); B: Unpublished records between 1976 and 1991 by En: Endemism; J: Java; JB: Bali; In: Indonesian archipelago (including all of Borneo
17 observers (data supplied by Bas van Balen), including nine visits of 2-5 days by and Timor islands)
Bas van Balen between 1981 and 1996; C: MacKinnon 1988; D: Unpublished
official records (2005-2011), collecting from weekly report from field officers, IUCN: NT: Near Threatened; VU: Vulnerable; EN: Endangered; CR: Critically
except Februari-April 2009 periode was collected by survey Endangered

269
About the Authors
Swiss Winnasis has been collecting bird photographs since
2005 after got his graduate degree from Gadjah Mada
University. Spent for almost four year as Forestry Technician
in Baluran National Park allows him collect more bird and
other wildlife photos. He is a founding member of Indonesian
biodiversity photo database site of the Foto Biodiversitas
Indonesia (FOBI) beside blogging on his own site “Baluran
and Me”. To write more about Indonesia’s biodiversity
richness is would be his major goal after this book, and the
previous “Burung-burung Taman Nasional Baluran”.

Sutadi has been working at Baluran National Parks for

10 years as Forestry Technician (PEH) after graduated
from Forest Ranger (FR) in 2001. For almost four years
he has been recording birds in Baluran NP. Together
with 1st author he has collected many of bird
photographs of Baluran National Park. This is the
second book after “Burung-burung Taman Nasional
Baluran”. Now he plans to write his third book.

Achmad Toha, the same as previous author, has been

working in Baluran NP for 10 years as Forestry
Technician (PEH) after graduated from Forest Ranger
(FR) in 2001. He should be know more about birds in
Baluran than two previous authors as he spent seven
years his works to watch and records them then writes
this second book after “Burung-burung Taman Nasional
Baluran”.

Dr Richard Noske was Senior Lecturer in Biology at Charles

Darwin University for 24 years, and is now an Honorary
Senior Research Fellow with the Research Institute for the
Environment and Livelihoods, at that institution. He is now a
part-time wildlife consultant and tour leader. Richard has
authored or co-authored 80 scientific journal articles, 12
book chapters and a book. His research interests include life
histories of Australasian tropical birds, pollination ecology,
village-based ecotourism and hunting practices. He is a
founding member of the Indonesian Ornithologists' Union,
and Chief Editor of its journal, Kukila.
ISBN:
978-602-19319-1-2
Dicetak oleh Balai Taman Nasional Baluran
menggunakan dana DIPA 29 2011