Isla de Komodo, part of the Parque Nacional de Komodo in eastern Indonesia, is not only famous for its largest lizard species — the Komodo dragon — but also for the unique ecological interactions between wildlife species. A scientific study investigated the distribution, seasonal use, and predation risks of incubation mounds created by the orange-footed scrubfowl (Megapodius reinwardt) on the island.
About the Orange-Footed Scrubfowl
The orange-footed scrubfowl is a ground-dwelling bird of the megapode family that uses heat from the environment — rather than body heat — to incubate its eggs. The species builds large mounds of soil and organic material, which provide warmth through microbial decomposition and solar heating, creating ideal conditions for egg development.
Field Surveys and Findings
Researchers conducted surveys in 13 valleys on Isla de Komodo de April 2002 to January 2005, locating a total of 113 tended incubation mounds y 107 untended mounds. The number of mounds and their density were similar to those reported in earlier studies from the 1970s, suggesting that the scrubfowl population and nesting activity have remained relatively stable over time.
Habitat and Seasonal Use
Most of the incubation mounds were found on sandy or loamy soils within open monsoon forests with minimal canopy shade — conditions that help maintain adequate temperatures for incubation. Although scrubfowl mounds were used throughout the year, the peak in active nest tending occurred during the late wet season in March, while considerably fewer mounds were active during the dry season from Abril a noviembre.
Predation Risks
One of the key aspects of the study focused on predation of scrubfowl eggs. The research identified Komodo dragons (Varanus komodoensis) y wild pigs (Sus scrofa) as the main predators of the incubation mounds. Interestingly, there was no clear evidence of direct egg predation by humans. In valleys where more untended mounds were found, researchers also observed a higher number of active Komodo dragon nests, suggesting a possible influence of dragon presence on scrubfowl mound use patterns.
Ecological Implications
The findings show a complex ecological interaction on Komodo Island where life history strategies of birds and reptiles intersect. The orange-footed scrubfowl’s nesting behavior, driven by environmental heat and seasonal conditions, supports chick survival without parental incubation, while also creating ecological niches that are exploited by predators like the Komodo dragon. Understanding these relationships is essential for biodiversity monitoring and ecosystem management within the national park
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