Burung Gelatik Jawa (Ilustrasi).The Javan Sparrow or Javan Sparrow has a scientific name Lonchura oryzivora. This bird is small with a length of approximately 15 cm with a very beautiful color, namely the color of the black head, beak and eye circles are pink, and has white circles under his eyes. Naturally, the habitat of the Javan Gelatik bird is mangrove forest, Coast, as well as open land. February to August is the breeding season for these birds whose main feed is these seeds. In that season this bird will begin to make a nest from dry grass which will be placed in the tree cavity.
Burung Gelatik Jawa yang masih marak diperjualbelikan di pasar hewan tradisional (Dokumentasi Pribadi).Basically the Java Gelatik spread is limited or endemic to the island of Java, Bali, and Madura. However, currently its distribution is widespread because it has been introduced in various regions. In addition, the ability to adapt to the environment around humans makes it easy to find in many places such as agricultural land, yards and urban areas. Nevertheless, in fact this bird actually has a high level of threat. Its popularity as a pet has been going on for a long time. Besides the attractive physical appearance, This bird also has a unique voice and its ability to maneuver when in a cage attracts the attention of the chirping bird hobbyist. This causes the existence of this bird in nature is very difficult for us to find around us. This scarcity actually makes this bird increasingly sought after by hunters and hobbyists alike, of course the selling price has also increased. Currently, the status of the Javanese Gelatik is threatened (Endangered) menurut IUCN Red List, and included in the list of protected animals in Indonesia according to the Minister of Environment and Forestry Regulation Number P.106 Year 2018.
The Javan Gelatik Bird was once abundant and even considered a pest
Sering berkelompok membuatnya rentan ditangkap secara massal (Ilustrasi)In the 1980-1990s, the Javanese Gelatik population was relatively high. However, the insufficient availability of natural food in their habitat causes these birds to move to the residents' rice fields in search of food. This was related to large-scale land clearing in Java at that time. As a result, conflict with the farmers is inevitable. In that year, This bird is considered a pest and is hunted on a large scale. Its habit of flying in groups makes it easier for these birds to be caught en masse. Besides that, it is loyal to the partner causing the rate of regeneration of this bird to be slower. In fact, it is estimated that the population has decreased drastically 50% during the period 20 last year.
Perhaps many are asking how it is possible that birds whose numbers were so abundant that they were once considered pests are currently in danger of extinction? This of course is clear evidence that hunting and trafficking of wild animals is very influential in decreasing animal populations in nature. Efforts to prevent hunting and trade in wild animals need to be continuously made so that no more animals are extinct from this nature. In addition, the preservation of natural wildlife habitat is very important for us to protect so that their survival can be guaranteed and minimize conflicts with humans.. Currently, various efforts to restore the Javan Gelatik population are starting to be carried out. Although it is not an easy job, it is not something that is impossible to do. We live on the same earth why can't we live with them?
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