Monitoring Wildlife Amid Mount Anak Krakatau's Eruptions: Impacts on Ujung Kulon National Park

Mount Anak Krakatau has been increasingly active, with significant eruptions occurring on September 4 and 6, 2026, characterized by continuous eruptions, rumbling sounds, and lava flows. The volcano remains at Level III alert status, indicating a heightened risk of further eruptions, according to the Geological Agency of Indonesia.

Located approximately 60 kilometers from the volcano, Ujung Kulon National Park is a critical ecosystem and the last habitat of the endangered Javan rhino (Rhinoceros sondaicus). This park is also home to other species such as the banteng (Bos javanicus), the dhole (Cuon alpinus), and the Javan leopard (Panthera pardus melas).

“When eruptions occur, many animals die from direct exposure to hot lava and volcanic ash, leading to significant population declines.”Dr. Abdul Haris Mustari, Wildlife Expert, IPB University

Concerns have been raised about how volcanic activity may disrupt these species and their habitats. Dr. Abdul Haris Mustari from IPB University noted that volcanic eruptions can lead to direct fatalities among wildlife due to hot lava flows and ashfall, which can also contaminate food and water sources. He stated that when eruptions occur, many animals die from direct exposure to hot lava and volcanic ash, leading to significant population declines.

However, the management of Ujung Kulon National Park has reported that the Javan rhino population is currently safe from the recent eruptions. According to the park's official Instagram account, there have been no direct impacts observed on the rhinos, as their foraging habits—primarily browsing on leaves and young branches—help shield them from volcanic ash that settles on the ground.

Despite the current safety of the Javan rhinos, the potential for ecological disruption remains. The Geological Agency has indicated that while the current volcanic activity is not expected to trigger a tsunami, continuous monitoring is essential. The agency emphasized that the activity of Mount Anak Krakatau serves as a reminder that nature is dynamic, but with consistent monitoring and appropriate mitigation measures, we can safeguard our ecosystems.

“The activity of Mount Anak Krakatau serves as a reminder that nature is dynamic, but with consistent monitoring and appropriate mitigation measures, we can safeguard our ecosystems.”Geological Agency of Indonesia

Research into wildlife behavior in response to geological disturbances is also being considered. The question is not whether animals can predict disasters, but whether their behavioral changes can provide consistent signals related to geophysical changes. Ujung Kulon could serve as a natural laboratory for this research, allowing scientists to track various species and their responses to environmental changes.

Monitoring efforts could include the use of camera traps and acoustic sensors to observe wildlife behavior and environmental conditions. If multiple species exhibit similar behavioral changes during volcanic activity, this could form a basis for further scientific inquiry.

“Communities should be vigilant about the possibility of wildlife leaving forested areas, as this could trigger conflicts with humans.”Dr. Abdul Haris Mustari, Wildlife Expert, IPB University

As the situation unfolds, the need for community awareness is crucial. Dr. Mustari cautioned that wildlife may migrate from their habitats due to volcanic activity, potentially leading to human-wildlife conflicts. He advised that communities should be vigilant about the possibility of wildlife leaving forested areas, as this could trigger conflicts with humans.

The interplay between volcanic activity and wildlife conservation underscores the importance of ongoing research and monitoring in Ujung Kulon. While the Javan rhino population currently appears unaffected, the broader ecological implications of volcanic eruptions necessitate a comprehensive understanding of how these events impact both wildlife and human communities.