Photos and videos courtesy of Kementerian Lingkungan Hidup Republik Indonesia and Yayasan Sintas Indonesia.
Java-Wide Leopard Survey
The Java-wide Leopard Survey (JWLS) is a national initiative headed by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. This collective effort aims to monitor and map the population of the critically endangered Javan leopard (Panthera pardus melas) across its remaining habitats in Java. Using camera traps, field observations, and genetic mapping, the survey provides valuable data to support the evidence-based conservation of this elusive species.
For the Mount Halimun-Salak region, the survey was supported by a strong partnership including Taman Nasional Gunung Halimun Salak (TNGHS), local conservation communities, and Barito Renewables (through Star Energy Geothermal Salak) as a dedicated regional sponsor.
Impact
as of August 2025
This collaborative effort yielded significant findings: camera traps deployed in TNGHS detected the critically endangered Javan leopard in 97.5% of the surveyed locations, confirming the species’ widespread presence across the landscape.
Management challenges
Conflict with Humans
Caused by excessively high density, especially in small (<100 km2) and medium-sized habitat patches.
Poaching and Trade
Hunting and trade resulting from high accessibility into the habitat of the Javan leopard (Adhiasto et al, 2020).
Genetic Erosion
As a result of habitats that are isolated from one another.
Conservation Gap
Minimal information regarding the population status and threats to the Javan leopard.
Dedicated Partners for the Java-wide Leopard Survey in the Mount Halimun Salak Region
