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.

In addition to wildlife concerns, Indonesian media has highlighted broader issues regarding disaster preparedness in the region. According to a report from Katadata, Indonesia is situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire, which has seen 4,699 volcanic eruptions and 196 earthquakes above magnitude 5 as of September 8, 2026. The report emphasized that disaster readiness is uneven across the country, with 342 districts identified as being at high risk for geological disasters. Alarmingly, the budget for disaster management has seen a drastic reduction from Rp4.47 trillion in 2025 to Rp491 billion in 2026, raising questions about the nation's preparedness to face future calamities.

While the coverage from Indonesian outlets stressed the urgent need for improved disaster readiness and resource allocation, the focus on wildlife in the context of Ujung Kulon National Park remained a primary concern in the international narrative. This divergence highlights a critical aspect of the national interest: while international observers may prioritize ecological impacts, domestic discourse is increasingly centered on the systemic vulnerabilities that could exacerbate the effects of natural disasters.

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.