Rawa Aopa Watumohai National Park

Birds

Rawa Aopa Watumohai National Park is also a haven for bird species, attracting ornithologists and bird enthusiasts from around the globe. The park’s diverse habitats provide a home for a wide array of birds, including many endemic to Sulawesi.

Maleo (Macrocephalon maleo)
This iconic bird, endemic to Sulawesi, is known for its unique breeding behavior of burying its eggs in volcanic sand to incubate. It has striking black and white plumage with a bright orange face.

Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea)
A large wading bird commonly seen in the park’s wetlands, it is recognizable by its reddish-brown plumage and long, slender neck.

Sulawesi Hornbill (Rhabdotorrhinus exarhatus)
This striking bird is endemic to Sulawesi, with its large casque and black-and-white plumage. It plays a crucial role in seed dispersal within the forest.

Knobbed Hornbill (Aceros cassidix)
Another spectacular hornbill species, the males have a vibrant orange casque and beak, while females have a smaller casque. They are often found in the forest canopy.

Great Egret (Ardea alba)
This elegant white bird is a common sight in the wetlands, where it feeds on fish, amphibians, and small invertebrates.

Sulawesi Serpent Eagle (Spilornis rufipectus)
An endemic raptor, it has a distinctive crest and preys on reptiles, small mammals, and birds. It can often be spotted soaring above the forest.

Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis)
A striking yellow and black bird that thrives in the park’s forests, it is known for its melodic calls and fruit-based diet.

Little Egret (Egretta garzetta)
This small, white heron is often found in shallow waters, where it hunts for fish and other aquatic prey.

Sacred Kingfisher (Todiramphus sanctus)
A brightly colored kingfisher with blue and orange plumage, it is commonly found near water, feeding on fish and insects.

Sulawesi Dwarf Kingfisher (Ceyx fallax)
This tiny kingfisher is endemic to Sulawesi and has brilliant blue and orange plumage. It inhabits forest streams and wetlands, where it preys on insects and small crustaceans.

Rawa Aopa Watumohai National Park, located in Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia, is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from wetlands and savannas to lowland rainforests. This biodiversity hotspot is home to a variety of unique and fascinating wildlife species that thrive in its protected habitats.

Asian Water Monitor (Varanus salvator)
This large lizard is commonly found in the park’s wetlands and forests. It is an agile swimmer and can often be seen basking near water or hunting for fish, amphibians, and small mammals.

Sulawesi Warty Pig (Sus celebensis)
A distinctive species endemic to Sulawesi, this wild pig has a rugged appearance with prominent facial warts. It plays a vital role in the ecosystem as a seed disperser.

Anoa (Bubalus depressicornis)
Also known as the dwarf buffalo, this small and endangered mammal is unique to Sulawesi and can be found in the park’s dense forests. It is shy and primarily feeds on grass, leaves, and fallen fruit.

Sulawesi Civet (Macrogalidia musschenbroekii)
The only civet species endemic to Sulawesi, this nocturnal carnivore thrives in the park’s forested regions. It has a striking spotted coat and feeds on small mammals, birds, and fruits.

Spectral Tarsier (Tarsius tarsier)
A tiny primate with enormous eyes, this nocturnal species is famous for its agility and ability to leap between trees. It primarily feeds on insects and small vertebrates.

Sulawesi Bear Cuscus (Ailurops ursinus)
This arboreal marsupial is a slow-moving herbivore, often spotted in the forest canopy feeding on leaves and fruit. Its bear-like appearance makes it a unique member of the park’s fauna.

Reticulated Python (Malayopython reticulatus)
One of the largest snake species in the world, this non-venomous python can be found in the wetlands and forests of the park. It preys on mammals and birds, using constriction to subdue its prey.

King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)
This venomous snake, known for its impressive size and iconic hood, is occasionally encountered in the park’s forests. It preys mainly on other snakes.

Wallace’s Flying Frog (Rhacophorus nigropalmatus)
This remarkable amphibian uses its webbed feet to glide between trees, making it a standout species in the park’s wetlands and forests.

Sulawesi Forest Turtle (Leucocephalon yuwonoi)
An endangered species endemic to Sulawesi, this turtle prefers swampy areas and slow-moving streams within the park. It has a distinctive flattened shell and is primarily herbivorous.