Wildlife Conservation

Implementation of conservation measures and assess of population for the Bawean deer (Axis kuhlii) and Bawean Warty pig (Sus blouchi)

Bawean deer (Axis kuhlii) and Bawean Warty pig (Sus blouchi) are endemic to the isolated island of Bawean in the Java Sea. Due to their small population size, they are vulnerable to stochastic events. The main threats are poaching, predation by free-ranging dogs and human disturbance. This project will take a number of measures to protect these species.

Estimate population size and trend and moving behaviour

Reliable figures on population size are essential for the evaluation of conservation measures. We will therefore compare our results from GPS tracking and camera traps with previously published and partly outdated data.

Reduce Human Wildlife Conflict (HWC)

Inform the local farmers about the amount of crop raiding caused by Bawean warty pigs to reduce HWC. Organisation of workshops to inform the local community about the critical situation of the Bawean deer.

Conservation Objectives include:

• Stabilise or increase the population size of Bawean deer.

• Recolonization of the protected areas in the eastern part of the island by the deer.

• Stopping predation by free-ranging dogs.

• End poaching with snares and hunting of Bawean Warty pigs in areas were the Bawean deer occurs.

Project Partner:

In situ population monitoring for One Plan conservation of the endangered Javan warty pig

The Javan Warty Pig (Sus verrucosus), Endangered on the IUCN Red List, faces significant threats from habitat fragmentation, hybridisation, human conflict, hunting and African Swine Fever. Accurate population estimates are lacking, which hinders conservation efforts. This project aims to address these challenges through comprehensive in situ population monitoring in West Java. This 12-month PPCF supported project will conduct camera trap surveys to gather robust data on pig population trends, distribution, and threats, informing evidence-based conservation actions.

The collaboration between Chester Zoo, Cikananga Wildlife Centre, the Javan Species Recovery Programme, and the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology at the University of Kent, will conduct surveys in key locations of pig habitat. The data collected will be analyzed using advanced statistical models to map pig abundance and identify critical areas. The data collected will inform a One Plan workshop, which will bring together stakeholders to develop a conservation action plan for the species.

Expected outcomes include:

• updated population status and distribution maps

• habitat suitability assessments

• a collaboratively developed conservation strategy.

This project will enhance local capacity for wildlife monitoring, contribute valuable population data and support community-based conservation efforts, ultimately aiming to secure the future of the Javan Warty Pig.

Project Partners: