Island Paradise for Wildlife and People

Abstract

Siberut, the largest of the Mentawai Islands, has a remarkable fauna with at least ten endemic mammal species — which include four primates — one endemic bird, thirteen endemic bird subspecies, and probably endemic insects, reptiles and amphibians still to be discovered. Until the 20th century the Siberut people lived in harmony with their environment, but modern practices are changing their ways, destroying their culture, and threatening the wildlife. The author describes the wildlife, the people, and the programme planned to help both in this difficult transition.