Impact of Forest Fire on the Movement Routes of Sumatran Elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus) in Way Kambas National Park

Abstract

Forest fires are defined as a condition in which a forest experiences fires that cause damage to the forest and the natural resources in it. This study aims to determine the effect of forest fires on the movement routes of Sumatran elephants (Elephas maximus sumatranus) in Way Kambas National Park using hotspot monitoring and via GPS Collar. This study was conducted from December 2024 to February 2025, observing elephant movement patterns before, during, and after the fire. The data shows the number of hotspots, with 23 points in 2021, 27 points in 2022 and increasing to 93 points in 2023. Data analysis was carried out using Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and Minimum Convex Polygon (MCP) to see the elephant movement areas and fires. The results of this study show that elephants avoid active fire areas, but return to burnt areas after the fire is extinguished, especially to look for food such as young reeds. The Ceria group has the highest tendency to be in former fire areas with moderate intensity at KD 50% 1,285 ha and KD 95% 6,785 ha. Meanwhile, other groups tend to explore less former fire areas Temporally, elephants will be active in former fire areas with a short duration (0–90 days). However, this trait is temporary, because elephants will return to look for more stable and safe habitats.