Ekologi Perilaku Ayam Hutan Hijau (Gallus varius Shaw & Nodder, 1798) di Taman Nasional Bali Barat

Abstract

Gallus varius is one of the birds of Gallus genus that has local name of green junglefowl, and it is one of endemic Indonesia junglefowl found only on the islands of Java, Bali, Kangean and Flores. One of its natural habitat is in Bali Barat National Park. Gallus varius is a species that become increasingly important and widely used as the male parent in the production of bekisar. Production of bekisar derived mostly from wild populations in Java, Madura and Bali. Exploiting in the wild course threaten the populations of green junglefowl. Knowledge of its bio-ecology is important in conserning the bird. One of the important knowledge in green junglefowl ecology is behaviour study of green junglefowl. The research was aimed to identify and describe the behaviour of Gallus varius and identify the behavioural strategy of Gallus varius at different habitats in Bali Barat National Park. The research was carried out in July until September 2011 in Tanjung Gelap monsoon forest and savannah in Prapat Agung. The method used for observation of daily activity was focal animal sampling. Behaviour was observed through observation at certain points where Gallus varius present. Data of habitat was obtained through analysis of vegetation using the line transect method. The result showed that habitat of Gallus varius consisted of two vegetation types that were the monsoon forest and savannah. Gallus varius in Tanjung Gelap monsoon forest habitat could easily be found at open area with grass and shrub. In the avannah Prapat Agung, Gallus varius could easily be also found at open area with grass, sandy soils and shrub. Its activity started at 05:30 am until 18:30 pm. The largest proportion of behaviour was resting and the smallest was movement. The main behaviour observed were feeding, drinking, sleeping, resting, movement and calling behaviour. The behaviour (feeding, drinking, sleeping, resting, movement and calling) frequency of Gallus varius in Bali Barat National Park was not affected by differences of habitat type, while the duration its behaviour was significantly affected by habitat type. Behavioural strategy of Gallus varius tent to adapt with habitat in fulfilling its needs.