Abstract
Abstract
HCV (High Conservation Value) areas in oil palm plantations has a potential to become an ecotourism destination, particularly where bird watching is concerned. However, the potential of HCV to become an ecotourism area has not yet been explored. The study aims to identify diversity of bird in different characteristic of HCV in oil palm landscape and to analysis which characteristic of HCV prospect to develop for bird watching ecotourism site. Data were collected using the line transect method in fourteen HCV areas in different plantation estates at different three provinces in Sumatera. The result showed about 87 bird species and 42 families were identified. Number of species recorded ranged from 10 species to 34 species each site. Based on species conservation status of IUCN, three species were listed as Vulnerable, according to CITES list, three species were classified in Appendix II. Eleven species were listed as protected species in Indonesia. The existence of these protected birds might be regarded as the iconic species of HCV areas, attracting tourists for birding. The HCV areas have a diversity of birds with different ecological roles which are thought to be related to the characteristics of the HCVs. The characteristics of HCV areas are; forest cover, riparian forest, or shrub, located in the middle of oil palm plantation had higher diversity of birds. Those kind of HCV characteristics is suitable to be developed as an ecotourism area. The management may utilize this study to design and manage ecotourism interventions, especially for birdwatching action.