Pitta Photography Tourism and Local Wisdom as Initial Strategy in Birds Conservation at Remote Places
Heru Cahyono, Robiatul Hadawiyah
1Malang Birding Tour, Jln. Skam No. 578 Prigen, Pasuruan , 67157
2Indonesian Genetic and Biodiversity Community, Jl Ikan Mujair No. 15. Tunjung Sekar, Lowokwaru, Malang
Abstract
Birds photography is one of the most popular hobbies in recent decade. Indonesia has the largest number of endemic Pitta species, favorite birds for photographers especially for Pitta Chaser. Involving local wisdom in bird conservation is the best way to conserve birds in their habitat due to forest degradation and illegal trading. The aim of this research is to involve local people in the conservation of Javan Banded Pitta, Elegant Pitta, Sumba Pitta, 2 sub-species of North Moluccan Pitta, Ivory-breasted Pitta, and Sula Pitta trough Pitta Photography Tourism. This research was conducted in six islands which consist of supporting habitat of 7 kind of Pittas, i.e R. Soeryo Forest Park, Kerandangan Forest, Gamalama Mountain, Aketajawe Lolobata NP, Matalawa NP, and Peleng Island. This research took place from August 2016 to July 2019. The method used was field observation and descriptive analysis. The study showed that Pitta Photography Tourism is the best way to involves local wisdom in Pitta conservation. Feeding places are made by local people in every spot to protect the birds existence. This way, local people will preserve their habitat to get extra income from this tourism, and their awareness has increased concerning other endemic birds in their area.
Keywords: Pittas, birds photography tourism, local wisdom, feeding places.
Topic: Bioconservation