Pulau Dua Nature Reserve (Pulau Burung)

Exploring Avifauna Paradise: Pulau Dua Nature Reserve (Pulau Burung), Banten

Located off the northern coast of Banten Bay, precisely in Sawah Luhur Village, Kasemen District, Serang City, Pulau Dua Nature Reserve is one of the most precious ecotourism gems in Banten Province. Despite bearing the name "island," this approximately 30-hectare landmass has geographically merged with Java due to river estuary sedimentation over decades. However, this physical change has not diminished its charm as the "Kingdom of Birds," a unique ecosystem that serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds across continents.

#

Lush Mangrove Ecosystem and Coastal Vegetation

Pulau Dua Nature Reserve presents a contrasting blend of dense mangrove forests with seagrass beds and coral reefs on its seaward side. The vegetation on this landmass is dominated by large trees that are favorite nesting sites for thousands of birds. You will find towering stands of Api-api (Avicennia marina), Bakau (Rhizophora mucronata), and Ketapang (Terminalia catappa).

The uniqueness of the vegetation here lies not only in its species but also in its function as a layered vertical structure. The muddy lower sections are home to fiddler crabs and various types of mollusks, while the dense canopy creates a shelter that protects thousands of bird nests from the scorching sun of Banten's northern coast.

#

Biodiversity: From Asia to Australia

The main attraction of Pulau Dua lies in its avifauna biodiversity. This place is a habitat for approximately 10,000 to 40,000 birds from around 108 different species. The most prominent uniqueness is the island's role as a "transit station" for migratory birds from the northern hemisphere (such as Siberia and East Asia) as well as Australia.

Some resident and migratory species that can be found include the Grey Heron (Ardea cinerea), Great White Egret (Egretta alba), Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster), and the Common Sandpiper. The lively chirping of thousands of birds creates a natural symphony not found elsewhere in Banten. Besides birds, the area is also inhabited by various types of reptiles such as water monitors and various fish species that inhabit the brackish swamps around it.

#

Tourist Experience: Birdwatching and Nature Photography

The main activity for visitors at Pulau Dua Nature Reserve is birdwatching. The management has provided observation towers that allow tourists to view the expanse of the mangrove forest from above. From the top of these towers, you can witness an extraordinary sight as thousands of birds fly back to their nests at dusk, with the backdrop of the sunset over Banten Bay.

For photography enthusiasts, Pulau Dua is a hidden paradise. Moments of birds feeding their young, the maneuvers of darters diving for fish, to the artistic details of mangrove roots emerging upwards (pneumatophores) are incredibly captivating subjects. Additionally, walking along the boardwalks through the mangrove forest offers a calm and educational adventure.

#

Best Time to Visit

The timing of your visit significantly determines the experience you will have. The bird migration season typically occurs between March and July. During this period, the number of birds at Pulau Dua will increase dramatically due to the arrival of guests from abroad escaping the winter in their native habitats.

For daily observations, the best times are in the morning (06:00 - 08:00) when birds begin to fly out to forage towards the sea or surrounding fish ponds, and in the afternoon (16:00 - 18:00) when they return to the trees to rest. Ensure you visit during clear weather for maximum visibility from the observation towers.

#

Conservation Status and Environmental Protection

Pulau Dua Nature Reserve was designated as a protected area by a decree from the Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies in 1937, which was later reinforced by the Indonesian government. The status of "Nature Reserve" means this area has the highest level of protection. Its primary focus is the protection of waterbird habitats and the preservation of the mangrove ecosystem.

Visitors are expected to adhere to strict rules: no littering (especially plastic that can harm birds), no hunting, and no loud noises that can cause birds stress and abandon their nests. The preservation of Pulau Dua heavily relies on the balance between its ecological function as a feeding ground and the tranquility of its surrounding environment.

#

Accessibility and Facilities

Geographically, this location is about 30 kilometers from the center of Serang City. Access to the site can be reached by two-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicles via the Karangantu route. After reaching the parking area in Sawah Luhur Village, visitors usually have to walk along the path by the fish ponds or use the services of local fishermen's boats navigating small rivers to reach the core of the nature reserve.

Facilities at the location are still relatively limited due to its nature as a conservation area, not a commercial entertainment venue. However, some basic facilities are available, such as:

• Information Center and Post of BKSDA (Center for Natural Resources Conservation).
• Wooden observation towers for birdwatching.
• Wooden boardwalks that cut through the mangrove forest (though some points require extra maintenance).
• Small stalls owned by local residents outside the core area offering light food and drinks.

#

Conclusion: Why Visit Pulau Dua?

Visiting Pulau Dua Nature Reserve offers a new perspective on Banten's natural wealth, which extends beyond popular beaches like Anyer. Here, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in tranquility, marvel at the wonders of fauna migration, and realize the importance of preserving coastal ecosystems. Pulau Dua is not just a tourist destination, but a living natural laboratory that teaches us about the harmony between land, sea, and air. If you are seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life while gaining insight into the world of avifauna, Pulau Dua is a must-visit destination on your Banten itinerary.