HABITAT CHARACTERISTICS OF SUMATRAN ELEPHANTS (Elephas maximus sumatranus) IN BULUH CINA NATURE PARK, KAMPAR REGENCY, RIAU

Abstract

Bulu Cina Nature Park (TWA) is conservation area located in Kampar Regency, Riau. Selection habitat characteristics of Sumatran Elephants can be done by considering various factors such as canopy cover, food availability, water availability as a drinking source. The study aimed to determine habitat characteristics of Sumatran Elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus) in Buluh Cina Nature Park (TWA). This research was conducted in July - August 2024. Data collection in observing habitat characteristics of Sumatran Elephant using purposive sampling method and analyzed qualitatively. Buluh Cina Nature Park (TWA) has a land elevation of 35 above sea level with a land slope of about 15% or 8^o. Habitat characteristics in Buluh Cina Nature Park (TWA) are composed of secondary forest areas that still have various types of plants (Calamus manan (Rattan), Phyllostachys aurea (Bambu Pancing), Ipomea lacunose (Bintang Putih) and Carex sylvatica (Grasses)) and can be used as the main food for elephants. TWA Buluh Cina area has moderate canopy cover that is used as a place for elephants to take shelter from the sun and there are many puddles (where elephants wallow) and water sources.