Sun bears have been spotted roaming around the cemetery in Bagendang Hulu Village, Bagendang District, East Kotawaringin Regency. In response to this report, the Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has set traps to protect these protected wildlife species.
The traps, in the form of net cages, were installed on Wednesday (11/10/2023) at around 09.00 WIB. The purpose of these traps is to prevent conflicts between sun bears and humans. The commander of the BKSDA Sampit Guard Post, Muriansyah, confirmed this action, stating that they set the traps based on the report from the village chief.
It was reported that a solitary bear was initially found in the residential area of Bagendang Hulu Village some time ago. However, after monitoring, no bears were found in the area. Muriansyah explained that two weeks prior to the installation of the traps, an individual bear had appeared and was roaming around the village. But later, it disappeared as well. Recently, three sun bears were reported to have been seen again and the village chief reported their reappearance.
To rescue these omnivorous animals, BKSDA officials collaborated with the village head of Bagendang Hulu, the head of the BPBD, village staff, and surrounding communities. They set up a set of bear traps and provided bait in the form of pineapples and honey to attract the bears into the traps.
The public, especially those with young children, have been urged by BKSDA officials to prevent their children from entering these animal traps. Furthermore, the public has been advised to exercise caution when encountering these animals. Sun bears, also known as honey bears (Helarctos Malayanus), are protected under Law No. 5 of 1990 on the Conservation of Natural Resources and Ecosystems.
FAQ:
Q: Why are sun bears roaming around the cemetery?
A: Sun bears have been spotted in the residential areas, including the cemetery, in Bagendang Hulu Village. The reason for their presence is currently unknown.
Q: What is BKSDA doing to address this issue?
A: The Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) has installed traps in the form of net cages to capture and protect these sun bears. They are also providing bait in the form of pineapples and honey to attract the bears into the traps.
Q: Are there any risks to the public?
A: The public, especially those with young children, have been advised to prevent their children from going near the animal traps. Additionally, everyone has been urged to exercise caution when encountering these animals.
Q: Are sun bears protected under the law?
A: Yes, sun bears, also known as honey bears (Helarctos Malayanus), are protected under Law No. 5 of 1990 on the Conservation of Natural Resources and Ecosystems.
