The Flame Skimmer is a very common species found in the open aquatic habitats of our reserve. During the middle of the day, they can often be seen perching on grass at the edge of ponds. Highly territorial, these dragonflies protect their females and their perching places. With their bright colors, they are easy to spot against the vibrant green backdrop of the forest.

Neurothemis fluctuans, commonly known as the Flame Skimmer, is a dragonfly species with a distinctive appearance, found in various parts of Asia. The male boasts vibrant red colors and exhibits sexual dimorphism. This species plays a crucial role in controlling vector insect populations, such as mosquitoes and other flies, contributing significantly to its ecological importance.

Neurothemis fluctuans is widespread across Asia, inhabiting diverse freshwater habitats. The visual differences between male and female dragonflies are driven by evolutionary pressures related to mating strategies, reproductive success, and ecological roles. Despite its prevalence, Neurothemis fluctuans is assessed as Least Concern and is not considered threatened.

In many dragonfly species, including Neurothemis fluctuans, males are often more visually striking and attractive than females. This phenomenon is attributed to sexual selection, a process where certain traits evolve because they confer an advantage in securing mates. The elaborate colors, patterns, and structures observed in male dragonflies serve multiple purposes, from attracting females to deterring rivals.

Meet the vibrant evergreen Mentepongan tree on Belitung Island, known for its rich nectar. These trees, reaching heights of up to 26 meters, thrive in diverse environments. Local wild honey farmers in Petikan Village collect abundant honey during the flowering season, thanks to these nectar-packed trees. Our reserve values them for supporting various bee species, making them essential for our honey farm.

Vernonia arborea, an evergreen shrub or tree within the Asteraceae family, attains heights of 15 to 26 meters. Locally sourced from the wild, it serves as both a medicinal resource and a timber supply. Thriving as a sub-canopy tree, it is commonly found in forest gaps, secondary growth areas, disturbed sites, and along roads, adapting to diverse environments such as swamps, riversides, hillsides, and dry ridges, reaching elevations up to 1,600 meters. On Belitung Island, these trees, known as “”Mentepongan,”” meaning rich in nectar, attract bees, butterflies, and flies. During their flowering season, wild honey farmers in Petikan Village collect substantial amounts of wild honey, particularly from the Apis dorsata species. In our reserve, the Mentepongan tree plays a crucial role by providing nectar for various bee species, notably supporting Trigona species in our honey farm and Apis cerana species for wild honey production.

Granite mosses, thriving on granite rocks in mountainous or rocky areas such as the Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, demonstrate impressive adaptability to harsh environmental conditions. Belonging to the Bryophyte family, they play essential roles in ecosystem processes by stabilizing soil, providing habitat, and serving as food sources for small organisms. Particularly in coastal regions where granite meets the ocean, certain moss species show the ability to colonize rocky substrates, enduring salt spray, strong winds, and varying moisture levels. Their presence significantly contributes to the formation of unique coastal ecosystems, supporting soil stabilization and providing habitat for organisms adapted to such challenging conditions. Overall, granite mosses exemplify resilience and are crucial in shaping and sustaining diverse ecosystems.

The growth of moss on granite surfaces is intricately connected to moisture availability, as mosses depend on water for survival and colonization. Granite’s moisture-retaining capacity creates suitable microhabitats for moss colonization, with dew, rain, or fog providing an ideal environment for moss spores to thrive. Additionally, moisture trapped within granite crevices and pores serves as a consistent water source for moss growth, especially in humid environments or near bodies of water. This correlation extends to granite sedimentation, where mosses tend to thrive in moist environments associated with water flow or accumulation, such as rivers, streams, or coastal regions. The porous nature of granite further aids moss growth by retaining moisture both on its surface and within its sedimentary layers. Over time, mosses contribute to the breakdown of granite sedimentation through root penetration and organic matter accumulation, influencing sediment composition and contributing to soil formation. Thus, the presence of mosses within granite sedimentation reflects the complex interplay between moisture availability, substrate characteristics, and ecological processes.

The “Bronze Flutterer”, scientifically known as Rhyothemis obsolescens and belonging to the Libellulidae family, is distinguished by its bronze wings with subtle magenta reflexes and intricate markings. Male specimens boast hindwings spanning 21.5 to 23 millimeters. Both males and females share similar traits, notably a larger abdomen that is more than twice the breadth of their hindwings, making them easily identifiable in their habitat.

The Bronze Flutterer dragonfly occupies various aquatic environments, including ponds, marshes, lakeshores, and slow streams, often near vegetation-rich water bodies that provide ample perches for resting and hunting prey. They are also found in coastal areas such as mangroves and tidal flats, favoring breeding sites with still or slow-moving water for larvae development. Thriving in diverse wetland habitats, they exhibit tolerance to disturbances and are commonly seen in marshes, swamps, ponds, and rivers. While they prefer some forest cover nearby, they are adaptable and have been observed at altitudes over 500 meters on Belitung Island.

With widespread distribution and resilience, the Bronze Flutterer is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Notably, around 12 individuals were recorded in March 2024 within our observation area.

Marvel at the majestic protectors of our reserve’s canopy, Ratufa bicolor, known as the Black Giants of the treetops. Their stunning dark black-brown and white fur, coupled with their elegant arboreal habits, embodies resilience and biodiversity. Within their lofty domain, they distribute seeds, enriching the lush ecosystem. These elusive beings intricately contribute to the vitality of life within our reserve, ensuring nature’s vibrant heartbeat perseveres.

Melastoma malabathricum, also known as Keleta’an, is a versatile shrub found across Southeast Asia, thriving in a range of habitats from lush rainforests to open savannas such as Kerangas forests. Its striking purple flowers not only add beauty to landscapes but also attract pollinators, aiding in biodiversity conservation. Beyond its ornamental value, the plant’s fruits possess medicinal properties and serve as vital food sources for various wildlife species.

Despite being considered a weed in some areas, Melastoma malabathricum plays a crucial role in supporting ecosystem health. It provides sustenance for pollinators and facilitates pollination and seed production for other plant species. Its presence enriches natural landscapes while contributing to the overall resilience and diversity of ecosystems across the region.

Discover the enchanting beauty and ecological importance of Melastoma malabathricum, also known as Keleta’an. From lush rainforests to open savannas, this vibrant shrub thrives across Southeast Asia, attracting pollinators with its striking purple flowers and nourishing wildlife with its fruits. Embrace nature’s wonders and cultivate biodiversity with Melastoma malabathricum in your landscape.

The buff-necked woodpecker, a species belonging to the Picidae family, has been recorded for the first time on Belitung Island, marking a significant discovery for the reserve. This bird inhabits Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, and Thailand. Its natural habitats include subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and swamps, where it faces significant threats from habitat loss.

The buff-necked woodpecker thrives in primary evergreen and semi-evergreen lowland forests characterized by dense undergrowth and decaying stumps, as well as peat swamp forests and tall secondary formations. While most sightings occur below 600 meters, the species has been recorded at elevations up to 1,250 meters. Although recent studies suggest its ability to persist in logged forests, it struggles to maintain viable populations in areas where closed-canopy forests have been cleared.

Repeated surveys are essential to assess population declines and range contractions, while advocacy efforts are crucial for protecting remaining lowland forest habitats. The buff-necked woodpecker is likely experiencing a moderate rapid decline throughout its range due to habitat loss and degradation, leading to its classification as Near Threatened. Monitoring for any future changes in decline rates is imperative. The discovery of the buff-necked woodpecker on Belitung Island is a testament to the importance of conservation and highlights the need to protect and preserve the island’s unique biodiversity.

Behold the mesmerizing Silvered Langur, gracefully navigating the lush canopies of Southeast Asian forests. Their striking appearance and elegant movements captivate all who encounter them.

The silvered langur, also known as the silvery lutung or silver leaf monkey, is a captivating primate species indigenous to Southeast Asia. Renowned for their stunning aesthetic, these monkeys boast a distinctive silver-gray coat complemented by a contrasting black face. Predominantly found in lush tropical forests, they navigate their arboreal habitats with agility and grace. Their diet primarily consists of leaves, classifying them as folivores. However, they also supplement their nutrition with fruits, flowers, and occasionally insects, showcasing a diverse palate. Their foraging behavior plays a vital role in the ecosystem, contributing to seed dispersal and maintaining the balance of plant populations.

Due to substantial habitat loss within the species’ range, it is suspected that there has been a decline likely exceeding 30% over the past three generations, spanning approximately 36 years. Consequently, the species qualifies for listing as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Considering the ongoing habitat degradation, as indicated by the World Forest Status report, and the escalating hunting pressure, it is anticipated that the species will continue to decline at a similar rate in the foreseeable future.

Fortunately, in the heart of the Reserve primary forest, these majestic primates roam freely, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the primary forest ecosystem. Their presence within the Tanjung Kelayang Reserve highlights the critical role of conservation efforts in safeguarding their habitat and ensuring the preservation of this iconic species for generations to come.

In honor of Biodiversity Day, we encountered the Black-and-Yellow Broadbill in the reserve’s primary forest area. Captured in a moment of reflection before taking flight, this bird was observed earlier this morning at 7:30 AM. This species is known for its strong pair bonds, often seen with its partner, especially during nest-building. Together, they construct intricate nests from woven fibrous leaves, forming pocket-like structures. During the egg-laying period, the male provides food for the incubating female and guards the nest from other birds, particularly cuckoos. The nest, built with meticulous care, is used continuously for up to three years until its structure naturally deteriorates. Only then do the pair construct a new nest together. Throughout the breeding season, these pairs consistently engage in cooperative behaviors, highlighting a robust bond and a shared commitment to the successful rearing of their offspring. The Black-and-Yellow Broadbill exemplifies unwavering teamwork in the heart of the forest, navigating life’s challenges side by side and creating a lasting partnership that withstands the test of time.