Nesting Behavior of the Golden Sunbird (Cinnyris jugularis) in Urban and Stable Areas of Aceh, Sumatera: A Comparative Study

Golden sunbirds nest at roof house 

*Heri Tarmizi

This study investigates the nesting preferences of Golden Sunbirds in Aceh, Sumatera, shedding light on the impact of habitat alteration on avian ecology.

Abstract:

This study explores the nesting behavior of the Golden Sunbird (Cinnyris jugularis) in urban and stable areas of Aceh, Sumatera, focusing on nesting locations and materials used. Data collected from Gampong Nusok and Gampong Tubalu reveal a preference for man-made structures in urban areas, such as rooftops and electricity lines, while natural branches are favored in the wild. The study documents the use of specific tree species, including the thorn tree (Azadirachta excelsa Jack), palm (Areca catechu), Bougainvillea, and coconut tree, for nesting in natural habitats, highlighting challenges posed by habitat loss.

Nest on palm tree Image source Google 

Introduction:

The Golden Sunbird (Cinnyris jugularis) exhibits unique nesting behaviors, which may be influenced by urbanization. This study investigates the nesting preferences of Golden Sunbirds in Aceh, Sumatera, shedding light on the impact of habitat alteration on avian ecology.

Methods:

Field research was conducted in Gampong Nusok and Gampong Tubalu, covering an area of 100 hectares. Data collection involved exploration and interviews with local residents to identify nesting locations and materials used.

Results:

In urban areas, 15% of nests were found on buildings and cable lines, while 85% were located on natural branches. Conversely, in wild habitats, Golden Sunbirds predominantly utilized specific tree species, including the thorn tree (Azadirachta excelsa Jack), palm (Areca catechu), Bougainvillea, and coconut tree, for nesting. However, the scarcity of these trees in urban areas has led to a reliance on man-made structures for nesting.

Golden sunbird nest Image source Google

Discussion:

The observed nesting behavior highlights the adaptability of Golden Sunbirds to urban environments. While traditional nesting sites on natural branches persist in wild habitats, the prevalence of man-made structures for nesting in urban areas underscores the impact of habitat alteration. The use of specific tree species for nesting in natural habitats underscores the vulnerability of these birds to habitat loss and deforestation.

Conclusion:

The nesting behavior of Golden Sunbirds in urban and stable areas of Aceh, Sumatera, reflects a dynamic response to habitat modification. Conservation efforts should prioritize the preservation of native vegetation to support avian populations amidst urban development.

Bibliography:

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3. Rambau, R. V. (2015). Effects of urbanization on bird communities in Durban, South Africa. Urban Ecosystems, 18(1), 1-18.

4. Tan, K., & Edwards, D. P. (2012). Birds in urban ecosystems: population dynamics, community structure, biodiversity and conservation. Avian Research, 3(1), 8.