Wildlife monitoring technology has evolved significantly in recent years, with camera traps being one example. Since 2024, the PT. Restorasi Habitat Orangutan Indonesia (PT. RHOI) has worked to install 6 Bushnell infrared cameras in the Kehje Sewen Forest. 

How Camera Traps Work

Despite its name, "Camera Trap," this device is harmless to wildlife. Camera traps are a non-invasive tool used to monitor animals, including orangutans. This conservation tool may observe orangutans activity for 30-60 days in distant and difficult-to-access locations without the requirement for physical presence. These cameras can also collect information on the existence, behaviour, life cycles, and interaction patterns of animals. 

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Camera traps are not as difficult as they may appear. This clever conservation tool is just a regular camera outfitted with infrared sensors. The camera operates by detecting movement and automatically collecting pictures of passing animals. This non-disruptive technology enables researchers to record numerous animal actions without disrupting their usual habits.

Camera Trap Installation

The camera traps are strategically placed at 6 points throughout the Kehje Sewen Forest. The cameras are installed at several key locations, approximately 500–1000 meters apart along pre-existing trail systems. This area covers most of the forest interior, which is difficult to access regularly.

The cameras are housed in lockable boxes, with the assumption that rehabilitated orangutans, who are more curious than wild orangutans, will find these cameras exciting objects to investigate. Data collection is place on by switching SD cards and battery. The images recorded on the SD cards are downloaded, saved to hard drives, and emailed from the field on frequently to the headquarters team.

Wildlife Captured by Camera Traps

Although the primary goal is to monitor orangutans, the camera traps have successfully recorded many wildlife species since this project began. These include sun bears (Helarctos malayanus), maroon leaf monkey (Presbytis rubicunda), barking deer (Muntjacus spp.), and the rare Bornean crested fireback (Lophura ignita), whose presence is now known to be extremely scarce. This information undoubtedly helps the PT. RHOI monitor wildlife population health and assess the effectiveness of habitat protection measures.

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The use of camera traps significantly aids researchers in gathering vital information that supports efforts to preserve orangutans and other wildlife in the Kehje Sewen Forest while ensuring that animals remain undisturbed in their natural environment.

Text by: Communication Team, BOS Foundation Headquarters, Bogor, West Java