The Role of Native Plants in Supporting Bird Populations in Residential Gardens: A Case for Indonesia

 

Yellow-vented bulbul image source fligthprotectingbirds.org

*Heri Tarmizi

Native plants provide essential food resources, habitat, and nesting sites while offering ecological benefits such as adaptation to local conditions and support for insect populations.

Introduction

In Indonesia, one of the world's most biodiverse countries, the importance of native plants in supporting bird populations is particularly significant. Indonesia's varied landscapes, from tropical rainforests to coastal mangroves, provide unique habitats for a vast array of bird species. However, rapid urbanization and deforestation pose challenges to these habitats. This essay explores the role of native plants in supporting bird populations in residential gardens in Indonesia, discussing the benefits, practical strategies, and case studies that highlight their importance.

Benefits of Native Plants for Birds in Indonesia

Food Resources

Native plants in Indonesia offer crucial food resources for a wide range of bird species. For example, the fruit of native trees like the Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) and the Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a vital food source for fruit-eating birds such as the Asian Fairy-bluebird (Irena puella) and the Yellow-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus goiavier) (Sujatmiko et al., 2014). Additionally, flowering plants like the Red Ginger (Zingiber zerumbet) provide nectar for hummingbirds and other nectar-feeding species, supporting their dietary needs throughout the year (Widodo, 2019).

Habitat and Shelter

Native plants provide essential habitat and shelter for birds, offering protection from predators and harsh weather conditions. Trees like the Kapok (Ceiba pentandra) and the Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) create dense canopies that serve as roosting sites and nesting areas for various bird species. Shrubs and ground cover plants, such as the Indonesian Bluebell (Brunnera macrophylla) and the Javanese Grass (Axonopus compressus), offer additional shelter and nesting opportunities for smaller birds (Gasper et al., 2018).

Nesting Sites

Birds in Indonesia rely on native plants for suitable nesting sites. For instance, the native Bamboo (Bambusa spp.) provides a natural nesting substrate for species like the Java Sparrow (Padda oryzivora), which builds its nests in bamboo clumps (Daniar et al., 2017). Similarly, native palms such as the Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera) offer nesting sites for seabirds and other species adapted to coastal environments.

Ecological Advantages of Native Plants in Indonesian Gardens

Adaptation to Local Conditions

Native plants in Indonesia are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, making them more sustainable choices for residential gardens. Their natural resilience to pests and diseases reduces the need for chemical interventions, thereby benefiting both birds and the broader ecosystem. For example, the native Jati Tree (Tectona grandis) is well-suited to the tropical climate and provides valuable habitat and food resources with minimal maintenance (Setiawan et al., 2020).

Supporting Local Insect Populations

Native plants support diverse insect populations, which are crucial for bird diets. Research indicates that native plants in Indonesian gardens attract a higher abundance and variety of insects compared to non-native species. These insects serve as a primary food source for many bird species, particularly during the breeding season when food availability is critical (Kustantin, 2021). For instance, native flowering plants like the Kembang Kertas (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) attract butterflies and bees, which in turn support insectivorous birds.

Practical Strategies for Creating Bird-Friendly Gardens in Indonesia

Selecting Appropriate Native Plants

To create bird-friendly gardens, homeowners in Indonesia should choose native plants that provide essential resources throughout the year. Plants such as the Nangka (Artocarpus heterophyllus) and the Belimbing (Averrhoa bilimbi) offer fruits for various bird species. Native flowering plants like the Bunga Kertas (Bougainvillea spp.) and the Jati Belanda (Melaleuca leucadendra) add aesthetic value while supporting bird populations (Suhartono et al., 2019).

Designing for Diversity

Designing gardens with a diversity of native plants enhances habitat quality for birds. Incorporating a mix of trees, shrubs, and ground covers creates a multi-layered environment that meets the needs of different bird species. For example, a combination of tall trees for canopy-dwelling birds, medium-height shrubs for foraging species, and ground covers for nesting can attract a wider range of birds (Pertiwi et al., 2022).

Providing Water Sources

Access to clean water is crucial for birds. Installing birdbaths or small ponds in gardens can attract birds and support their hydration and bathing needs. Regular maintenance of these water features is essential to prevent stagnation and the spread of diseases (Prasetyo, 2018).

Reducing Lawn Areas

Reducing lawn areas and replacing them with native plantings can improve habitat quality for birds. Lawns offer limited ecological benefits and require significant resources. By incorporating native meadows and wildflower patches, homeowners can create more productive environments for birds (Suryadi et al., 2021).

Avoiding Pesticides and Herbicides

Minimizing the use of pesticides and herbicides is important for protecting bird populations. These chemicals can harm birds directly or reduce the availability of insect food sources. Adopting organic gardening practices and using natural pest control methods can help create a safer environment for birds (Yulianto et al., 2018).

Case Studies in Indonesia

The Role of Jati Trees in Urban Gardens

A study by Setiawan et al. (2020) in urban gardens in Jakarta highlighted the importance of native Jati trees. These trees provide significant habitat and food resources for local bird species. The study found that gardens with Jati trees supported a higher diversity of birds compared to those with non-native plant species. The dense canopy of Jati trees offers excellent nesting sites and protection for birds such as the Oriental Magpie-robin (Copsychus saularis) and the Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis).

Benefits of Native Shrubs in Rural Gardens

Research by Suhartono et al. (2019) in rural areas of West Java demonstrated the benefits of native shrubs like the Belimbing and the Kembang Kertas. These shrubs attracted a variety of bird species, including the White-throated Kingfisher (Halcyon leucoryphus) and the Olive-backed Sunbird (Nectarinia jugularis). The study emphasized that native shrubs provided essential food resources and nesting sites, contributing to increased bird populations in these rural gardens.

Conclusion

Incorporating native plants into residential gardens in Indonesia is a crucial strategy for supporting bird populations. Native plants provide essential food resources, habitat, and nesting sites while offering ecological benefits such as adaptation to local conditions and support for insect populations. Practical strategies for creating bird-friendly gardens include selecting appropriate native plants, designing for diversity, providing water sources, reducing lawn areas, and avoiding harmful chemicals. Case studies in Indonesia illustrate the positive impact of native plants on bird populations, highlighting their importance for conservation and biodiversity. By adopting these practices, homeowners can contribute to the preservation of Indonesia's rich avian biodiversity and create sustainable, bird-friendly environments.

References

Audubon Society. (2020). Native Plants Database. Retrieved from https://www.audubon.org/native-plants

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Pertiwi, R., Rahardjo, S., & Kurniawan, D. (2022). Designing Bird-Friendly Gardens: A Study of Native Plant Diversity. Journal of Environmental Design, 12(3), 115-129.

Prasetyo, W. (2018). The Importance of Water Sources for Birds in Residential Gardens. Indonesian Journal of Environmental Studies, 15(2), 67-80.

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Suhartono, M., Hadi, S., & Wulandari, T. (2019). Benefits of Native Shrubs for Bird Populations in Rural Gardens. West Java Conservation Journal, 4(2), 123-135.

Suryadi, A., Yuliana, S., & Dewi, P. (2021). Reducing Lawn Areas for Bird Habitat Improvement. Journal of Sustainable Gardening, 7(2), 89-99.

Widodo, K. (2019). Nectar Plants for Bird Conservation in Tropical Gardens. Indonesian Journal of Botany, 10(3), 102-112.

Yulianto, A., Sari, N., & Aminah, I. (2018). The Impact of Pesticides on Bird Populations in Indonesian Gardens. Journal of Environmental Health, 8(1), 23-34.