Indonesian

Abstract

Rustiadi A, Prihatini W. 2015. Javan leopard (Panthera pardus melas Cuvier, 1809) and its potential preys in Bodogol, Mt. Gede Pangrango National Park. Pros Sem Nas Masy Biodiv Indon 1 (2): 236-241. Mt. Gede Pangrango National Park (GPNP) is a potential habitat for Javan leopard (Panthera pardus melas), an endemic species in Java. Information about P. p. melas population in Mt. Gede Pangrango National Park is very limited due to lack of related studies. This research was conducted in March to May 2014 in Bodogol area of Mt. Gede Pangrango National Park, to monitor the presence, frequency of encounter, time pattern, distribution and potential preys of the Javan leopard. Camera trap method was used for data collection at five locations in Bodogol (Afrika, Pasir Buntung, Gombong Koneng, Katel, and Sigareng) based on previous signs of the leopard’s presence. Data were analyzed to identify the leopard individuals of and its potential preys, frequency of encounter and its distribution in Bodogol. The camera traps were located in the lower part of mountain secondary forest with high varieties of vegetation. This research resulted in 184 images in 124 day trap nights. Two individuals were camera-trapped in Bodogol (ER= 1.61 photographs/100 days). Potential preys encountered were Sus scrofa, Paradoxurus hermaphroditus, Gallus gallus, Tragulus javanicus, and Tupaia montana. Time pattern of the leopard could not be analyzed, because of inadequate images. Time pattern of potential preys was 58% diurnal and 42% nocturnal. The leopard individuals encountered at Afrika and Sigareng location, were assumed to be associated with abundant preys and water sources. Dense forest with open transition areas was preferred by P. p. melas to stalk their preys. Distribution of Javan leopard in Bodogol was concentrated on the mountain ridge, since it allows easier movements and has abundant potential preys. To preserve the leopard’s habitat, the author recommends that management of preys, water source, and habitat cover should be implemented through improvement of plants eaten by the leopard’s preys, poaching control, and forest patrol.