Distribution of Macaca ochreata and Identification of Mixed Ochreata-Tonkeana Groups in South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Abstract

We collected data on the distribution of booted macaques (Macaca ochreata) in Faruhumpenai Nature Reserve in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, in order to assess its conservation status. Methodology included censuses conducted along piecewise linear transects established at two sites from April – July 2006. The total distance walked was 45 km for the Matano site, and 20 km for the Kasintuwu site. Group density of booted macaques at the Matano site was 0.97 – 1.56 per km². At the Kasintuwu site, we encountered groups of booted macaques and Tonkean macaques (Macaca tonkeana), as well as mixed groups of tonkeana and ochreata. The group density of booted macaques was 1.45 – 2.00 per km². Overall macaque group density (i.e., Macaca spp.) at this site was 3.25 – 4.00 per km². Our study demonstrated that two species of Sulawesi macaques, M. tonkeana and M. ochreata, as well as mixed tonkeana-ochreata groups occur in the forests in and surrounding Faruhumpenai Nature Reserve. The results confirm a more extensive range of M. ochreata than was previously recognized; one that extends further north and northwest than the provincial boundary of south and southeast Sulawesi. The conservation status of booted macaques may, therefore, not be as precarious as previously thought, since their habitat is protected in not only two large conservation areas in Southeast Sulawesi (Rawa Aopa National Park and Tanjung Peropa Game Reserve), but also in South Sulawesi in the Faruhumpenai Nature Reserve. Nonetheless, because cacao is frequently planted on the borders of these protected forests, human-macaque conflict resulting from crop raiding may eventually pose a threat.