HABITAT REQUIREMENTS OF MIGRATORY BIRDS IN THE MATANG MANGROVE FOREST RESERVE, PERAK

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the habitat requirements of two migratory bird families, namely, Scolopacidae and Charadriidae in the Matang Mangrove Forest Reserve, Perak using habitat modelling. In order to determine the population distribution of these migratory birds, the habitat modelling requires information on the surrounding environment. Data on distribution of migratory bird population were utilised to assist the construction of the model. The approach in modelling the habitat was based on geographic information system (GIS) and remote sensing applications using the softwares ArcGIS10.3 and ERDAS Imagine 8.5 respectively. The latter was used to model the relationship between the study parameters (climate, environment and elevation) and the population density of migratory birds. This study showed that GIS and remote sensing were able to utilise data obtained via satellite images and fieldwork for habitat modelling, and that Pulau Kalumpang had the highest density of migratory birds compared with the other stations. Meanwhile, Pulau Sangga Besar and Kertang had potential to be the alternative locations in the next 20 years.