Strategi Pengelolaan Habitat Orangutan Tapanuli (Pongo tapanuliensis) di Desa Bulu Mario dan Aek Batang Paya Kecamatan Sipirok Kabupaten Tapanuli Selatan

Abstract

The Tapanuli orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis) is the most critically endangered great ape species in the world, with its primary habitat located in the Batang Toru ecosystem, North Sumatra. Deforestation and land conflicts are putting strain on this area, especially in the Other Use Area (APL), which has no protection. This research was conducted in Bulu Mario and Aek Batang Paya villages, aiming to describe the land cover conditions, the potential of food trees and orangutan nests, as well as the socio-economic conditions of the community. The methods employed include high-resolution satellite imagery analysis, vegetation surveys, and community interviews. SWOT and AHP methods are used to examine habitat management plans and priorities. According to the findings, 65.9% of the study area is covered by primary and secondary forest cover, with primary forests likely to be the primary distribution for food trees and orangutan nests. However, between 2019 - 2023, habitat degradation has taken place at an average annual rate of 2% deforestation. Community-managed mixed plantations, particularly of coffee and durian, serve as high interaction sites between humans and orangutans. The main strategy produced is the optimization of the ecological functions of APL areas as corridors and buffer zones, enhancing community involvement in conservation through wildlife-friendly agroforestry, and protecting critical habitats through a collaborative approach among stakeholders. The highest priority in management is the protection of natural habitats and the management of community gardens based on conflict mitigation. This research recommends that an integrated landscape approach that combines habitat conservation, community empowerment, and the wise utilization of local commodities can serve as an effective solution in ensuring the survival of the Tapanuli orangutans outside conservation areas.