Kanguru at Wasur National Park, Merauke – Suplied
Merauke, Jubi – Illegal hunting activities within the 430,000-hectare Wasur National Park threatened the population of animals, especially kangaroos, a park official told Jubi on Monday (2/11/2015).
Syaiful said a few years ago, people’s presence attracted kangaroos, but now the animals are afraid of humans.
However, Syaiful did not give an estimate on the remaining population kangaroos in the Wasur National Park, since recalculation is needed.
But its population is still founded, and according to calculation, a kangaroo could be seen in a hectare.
“The number is relatively small compared to few years ago,” he said.
As explained, the hunting activities could be involved the local community living in the area of Wasur National Park who traditionally are landowners due to the special privilege given. About the outsiders, Syaiful admitted he met the outsiders go hunting a few years ago but he doesn’t know recently.
Meanwhile the Head of Wasur National Park, Anggoro admitted the Wasur National Park is the nest of many species such as birds, kangaroo and other wilds. Particularly for the birds, the number is growing due to birds’ migration from other countries including Australia. And for cenderawasih (bird of paradise), its population is growing. “Yes, but I have not received a detail report on cenderawasih species in the Wasur National Park,” he said. (Frans L Kobun/rom)
