Riau Conservation Agency Monitors Sumatran Tiger Presence in Indragiri Hilir

The Riau Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BBKSDA) is monitoring the presence of a Sumatran tiger using camera traps and drones, after footprints of the wild animal were discovered in Sungai Danai Village, Pulau Burung District, Indragiri Hilir Regency.

Head of BBKSDA Riau Supartono said that the Wildlife Rescue Unit (WRU) team identified fresh tiger footprints at the location, measuring 14 centimetres in length and 13 centimetres in width.

“To determine the movement of the wild animal, the team installed camera traps and conducted aerial monitoring by flying a drone around the location,” he said in Pekanbaru on Thursday.

This action was taken to follow up on a report of a negative interaction between humans and a Sumatran tiger, which entered a residential area and attacked livestock on Friday, 24 July. BBKSDA Riau deployed the WRU team to conduct checks and mitigation efforts.

He also advised residents to pen their cattle and goats so as not to attract tigers to the settlement. Additionally, he recommended constructing carbide cannons to deter the tiger and encourage it to return to its habitat.

Director General of Natural Resources and Ecosystem Conservation, Satyawan Pudyatmoko, stated that the Sumatran tiger is a key species protected by law and a source of pride for the island of Sumatra.

The public is urged to immediately report to BBKSDA Riau officers or local authorities if they see or become aware of the presence of a Sumatran tiger, to support further handling.

“Therefore, let us protect nature and its contents for the welfare of the community. Let us together safeguard the conservation of protected wildlife while maintaining the safety of the community’s living space,” he said.