Fakfak, West Papua – The Fakfak Mountain Nature Reserve, located in Fakfak Regency, is the only nature reserve in the area, encompassing several districts, including Fakfak Barat, Fakfak, Fakfak Tengah, Fakfak Timur Tengah, and Fakfak Timur. This reserve is renowned for its extraordinary wealth of flora and fauna, with pristine and dense forests providing a habitat that is challenging to access.
in the nature reserve area of Fakfak Tengah District, the sound of chirping birds filled the morning air. Purwanto, the founder of Fakfak Birding and Wildlife, revealed that this area is home to various species of birds, including the Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger atterimus), the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita), and the Papuan Hornbill (Rhyticeros plicatus).
“Typically, we conduct observations of flora and fauna in the morning for diurnal species and switch to nocturnal fauna observations at night,” Purwanto stated. The exploration methods include selecting observation points based on recommendations from local residents and target ecoregion analysis.
After several days of exploring, the team often hears the calls of birds of paradise, especially during the mating season. “If we’re lucky, we can witness a male bird of paradise dancing and calling to attract a female,” he added. Additionally, they frequently encounter various species of snakes, frogs, and insects.
This untouched forest is often home to a multitude of typical species found in tropical rainforests. “For those wishing to visit the Fakfak Mountain Nature Reserve, we recommend bringing comprehensive equipment because, due to the forest’s density, visitors need to be agile to capture moments with the wildlife present,” Purwanto advised.
With its preserved natural wealth, the Fakfak Mountain Nature Reserve is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike and presents significant potential for the development of ecotourism in West Papua.
