Interaksi Monyet Ekor Panjang (Macaca fascicularis) dan Manusia di Pantai Bama, Taman Nasional Baluran: Analisis Persepsi dan Observasi Perilaku

Interaction Between Long-Tailed Macaques (Macaca fascicularis) and Humans at Bama Beach, Baluran National Park: An Analysis of Perceptions and Behavioral Observations

Abstract

Bama Beach is one of the tourism areas in Baluran National Park (BNP), which is also a habitat for long-tailed macaques (LTM) (Macaca fascicularis). This species is commonly found with aggressive behavior and bravery towards humans at Bama Beach. The aim of this study is to determine the level of interaction that occurs between LTM and humans at Bama Beach, BNP. The method used was a survey questionnaire (Likert scale) and also field observations to support the results of the interaction level in May 2023. Questionnaire data collection is aimed at visitors (64 respondents) and BNP staff (six respondents). While field observations were collected by scan sampling methods during seven days. The results of the questionnaire based on a Likert scale obtained an average index value of 34.25% (mild interaction). This interaction was predominantly characterized by spatial proximity between LTM and humans without physical contact or proximity interaction, which has the highest value (44%). However, we also found the threatened interaction to humans, including intimidating (20%), facial or voice threats (16%), taking humans' stuff (14%), and chasing or lunging (5%). Ultimately, these findings provide a crucial basis for BNP management to develop appropriate conservation strategies to prevent long term human-LTM conflict.