Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park

Bukit Barisan Selatan Overview

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, locally known as Taman Nasional Bukit Barisan Selatan, is a vital conservation area located on the southern tip of Sumatra, Indonesia. The park spans approximately 1,375 square miles (3,567 square kilometers) and is part of the UNESCO-listed Tropical Rainforest Heritage of Sumatra.

Nestled along the Bukit Barisan Mountain Range, which forms a backbone along the length of Sumatra, the park’s diverse landscapes include dense lowland and montane rainforests, swamp forests, and coastal ecosystems.

The terrain is characterized by dramatic ridges, valleys, and rugged peaks, with several mountains, such as Mount Sekincau and Mount Pulung, adding to its dramatic topography. Numerous rivers meander through the park, creating waterfalls and fertile habitats for its rich biodiversity.

The lush vegetation ranges from towering dipterocarp trees to orchids and ferns, forming a dense canopy that sustains life at every level. The park’s mangroves and coastal areas add another layer of ecological diversity, supporting species unique to these environments.

Wildlife thrives in Bukit Barisan Selatan, and it is among the last refuges for critically endangered species. The park is home to iconic mammals like the Sumatran tiger (Panthera tigris sumatrae), the elusive Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis), and the Asian elephant (Elephas maximus sumatranus), all of which are critically endangered due to habitat loss and poaching. Other mammals, such as sun bears, clouded leopards, and agile gibbons, can also be found within its borders.

Birdlife is equally diverse, with over 300 species recorded, including the striking rhinoceros hornbill and the rare white-winged duck. These creatures coexist in one of the most biologically diverse habitats on Earth.

Visitors to the park are drawn by its pristine beauty and opportunities for exploration and wildlife encounters. Popular features include the Way Canguk Research Station, a hub for studying the park’s ecology and conservation, and the Sukaraja Atas Trail, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The beaches along the park’s southern boundaries, such as Tampang Belimbing Beach, provide unique coastal experiences, including turtle nesting sites.

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park can be explored through guided trekking, birdwatching tours, and educational visits to its research stations. Engaging with local guides enhances the experience, as their knowledge of the flora and fauna enriches visitors’ understanding of this biodiverse haven. Conservation challenges, however, persist, as deforestation, encroachment, and poaching threaten the park’s ecosystems.

Despite these difficulties, concerted efforts by the Indonesian government, NGOs, and local communities have resulted in successes, such as increased awareness, habitat restoration projects, and anti-poaching initiatives.

Park Map

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Birds

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering an incredible diversity of avian species. Below are some of the popular bird species found in the park:

Rhinoceros Hornbill
This large and colorful bird is easily recognized by its impressive casque. It is an essential seed disperser and is often seen flying across the canopy in pairs or small groups.

Great Argus
Known for its extraordinary plumage and elaborate courtship displays, the great argus is a ground-dwelling bird that inhabits the dense forest undergrowth.

Oriental Pied Hornbill
A smaller hornbill species, the Oriental pied hornbill is notable for its white and black plumage and its association with tropical forests.

Crested Serpent Eagle
This raptor is known for its sharp, piercing call and keen eyesight. It is commonly found soaring above the forests, hunting for snakes and other small prey.

Buffy Fish Owl
This nocturnal bird of prey is often found near water sources, hunting fish and amphibians. Its distinctive ear tufts and yellow eyes make it a striking sight.

Asian Fairy Bluebird
With its vivid blue plumage and melodious calls, the Asian fairy bluebird is a favorite among bird watchers. It primarily feeds on fruits and insects.

Black-and-Red Broadbill
This small, brightly colored bird is known for its striking red and black plumage and stout bill. It is commonly found in forested and wetland areas.

Green Broadbill
With its bright green feathers, this bird is perfectly camouflaged in the lush rainforest foliage. It is primarily frugivorous and plays a role in seed dispersal.

Wrinkled Hornbill
An endangered hornbill species, the wrinkled hornbill is known for its striking casque and vibrant plumage. It relies on tall forest trees for nesting and feeding.

Scarlet Minivet
This small, vibrant bird is known for its bright red and black colors in males and yellow and black in females. It is often seen in mixed-species flocks.

Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, located in the southern region of Sumatra, Indonesia, is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and lush tropical landscapes. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as a vital habitat for many endangered species, showcasing the rich natural heritage of the region. Below are some of the popular species found in this park:

Sumatran Tiger
One of the rarest tiger subspecies, the Sumatran tiger is a critically endangered species found in the dense forests of the park. Known for their smaller size and distinctively thick black stripes, these tigers are elusive and play a crucial role as apex predators.

Sumatran Rhinoceros
This critically endangered rhinoceros is the smallest of its kind and the only Asian rhinoceros with two horns. With a thick, hairy coat, it primarily inhabits the park’s rainforests and is a symbol of conservation efforts in Sumatra.

Malayan Tapir
Easily recognizable by its distinctive black-and-white markings, the Malayan tapir is a herbivorous mammal found in the park’s forests. It is known for its shy nature and is often spotted near water sources.

Clouded Leopard
This elusive and arboreal big cat is known for its beautiful spotted coat and climbing prowess. The clouded leopard is a key predator in the park’s ecosystem and is highly adapted to the dense rainforest environment.

Asian Elephant
The park provides refuge to small populations of Asian elephants, which are known for their intelligence and complex social structures. These majestic creatures contribute to the ecological balance of their habitats by facilitating seed dispersal.

Sun Bear
The smallest bear species in the world, the sun bear is named for the golden crescent-shaped mark on its chest. This omnivorous species primarily feeds on insects, fruits, and honey.

Leopard Cat
A small wild cat species, the leopard cat is known for its leopard-like spots and nocturnal habits. It is an adaptable predator that thrives in the park’s diverse forest habitats.

Siamang
This black-furred gibbon is the largest of the gibbon species and is famous for its loud, resonating calls. Siamangs are primarily arboreal and play an important role in seed dispersal within the forest.

Binturong
Also known as the bearcat, the binturong is a unique mammal with a prehensile tail and a scent that resembles buttered popcorn. It is arboreal and omnivorous, often feeding on fruits and small animals.

Fishing Cat
This medium-sized wild cat is an adept swimmer and is often found near wetlands and rivers. Its diet primarily consists of fish, making it an important part of the park’s aquatic ecosystems.