Phenology Survey at South of Kehje Sewen Forest
Rainy days rarely stop our PRM teams from conducting their routine patrol activities in the Kehje Sewen Forest. The PRM team from Nles Mamse camp recently set off in wet weather conditions to conduct a monthly phenology survey; a collection of data on flowering and fruiting trees found in the forest, to determine food availability for released orangutans.
The team departed camp at 8 a.m. under a morning shower and headed directly to the phenology transect location. After hiking several kilometers through dense forest, the team finally reached the location and began recording the necessary data on the flowering and fruiting trees found there.
Despite the rain, our team was able to successfully complete the phenology survey over a number of consecutive days. We discovered that the Vitex, Oncosperma, Aglaia, and Knema trees, among others, were already beginning to fruit.
Vitex fruit
Oncosperma fruit
Knema fruit
In addition to these fruiting trees, we found that a number of other trees were flowering; an indication of more fruit to come. During the survey, the team also came across several unique animals: hornbills, squirrels, snakes, and gibbons.
Hornbills
The biodiversity of the Kehje Sewen Forest is simply amazing – every species found here contributes to supporting this complex and incredible ecosystem. This makes us even more determined to keep working hard to ensure orangutan and habitat conservation. You can help us, too!
Text by: PRM team at Camp Nles Mamse, Kehje Sewen Forest
