Jambi BKSDA Fits GPS Tracking Collars on Elephants in Bukit Tigapuluh

The Jambi Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has fitted GPS collars on Sumatran elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus) within the Bukit Tigapuluh landscape in the province. The collaring is intended to facilitate real-time monitoring of elephant movements. According to Jambi BKSDA Head Himawan Sasongko, because elephants live in groups, the agency first mapped out the approximate number of herds in the landscape. He explained that the GPS collars allow officers to monitor movements in real time more easily. Based on mapping and studies conducted, the Jambi BKSDA identified five large groups of female elephants in the area. Following the behavioural pattern where movement is heavily dictated by the group leader, the agency selected a leading elephant from each group to be fitted with a GPS collar. In addition to the female groups, a tracking device was also fitted on a male elephant, as mature males often separate from the herd. Through this technology, the Jambi BKSDA hopes to activate a more effective early warning system. Beyond preventing negative interactions with humans, the monitoring aims to protect the elephants’ safety, including surveillance in locations considered vulnerable to poaching crimes. Himawan estimated that approximately 120 elephants currently reside in the province, with the largest population found in the Bukit Tigapuluh landscape. He concluded that the primary goal is to facilitate monitoring, build an early warning system, and prevent negative interactions.