Rawa Danau Nature Reserve, Nature reserve in Serang, Indonesia
Rawa Danau is a nature reserve covering roughly 3,500 hectares of freshwater swamp forest and interconnected lake systems in Banten province. The area spans three sub-districts and provides diverse habitats for plants and animals.
The Dutch colonial government protected this area in 1921 as Natuurmonument Danoemeer to preserve its distinctive ecosystems. That decision established its foundation as a sheltered location that continues to this day.
Local communities around the reserve have long gathered medicinal plants like gaharu wood and carnivorous species for traditional healing practices. These activities remain woven into daily life and local knowledge.
Entry requires a permit from the West Java Natural Resources Conservation Agency for visits and observation activities. It is wise to contact local authorities in advance to arrange access and ensure a smooth visit.
The reserve holds the only mountainous swamp ecosystem on Java island and is home to rare species like estuarine crocodiles and black eagles. This combination of terrain and wildlife exists nowhere else on the island.
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