Living in Harmony with Kukila: The Balance Between Humans and Birds in Kemuning Forest

Sunlight slowly filtered through the forest canopy, bringing life to everything on the forest floor. Beneath the shade of dense trees stood well-maintained robusta coffee plants, about chest-high and tightly packed. The red, abundant coffee cherries—so desired by people around the world—were clearly visible. Farmers hurried along, carrying wooden baskets and supplies to harvest their fresh yield. It seemed that not only humans felt the excitement—birds, too, filled the air with lively calls as they searched for food. It was a perfect time for my visit to Kemuning Forest at the end of the second quarter of the year.

Coffee farmers carefully and quickly pick ripe cherries to be sold to collectors or processed independently. Photo: Salahuddin Halim

After resting overnight, the next day, I, along with Kang Kunthing—a former hunter who has long since shifted to collecting forest products—set out eastward into the forest, heading toward our observation point. Along the way, we often passed farmers carrying sacks of coffee weighing hundreds of kilograms, to be sold or processed. The wilderness and the daily lives of local communities seemed to blend seamlessly.

Harvested coffee cherries are first collected in wooden baskets before being placed into sacks and transported out of the forest. Photo: Salahuddin Halim

At times, our breath grew heavy as we navigated the hilly terrain, occasionally ducking beneath dense coffee shrubs. After walking several kilometers, we arrived at a location we considered rich in bird activity. Towering fig trees (Ficus sp.) heavy with fruit stood among other trees with dense canopies. The atmosphere of Kemuning Forest was always lively with birdsong. The most distinct calls came from barbet species, accompanied by the faint sounds of other birds. We observed birds with varying social behaviors—some in groups, others solitary. With limited visibility, I quickly prepared my binoculars and camera.

“There, that’s a Javan hanging parrot!” exclaimed Kang Kunthing, pointing at a distant flowering tree without any equipment. I could only smile in amazement.

The banded pitta (Hydrornis guajana) foraging on the forest floor. This species is protected by the government. Photo: Yopi Haryandi

“Migratory birds do come sometimes, but not many, and not in this season,” said Kang Kunthing, who has observed birds in Kemuning Forest for three decades. I understood he was referring to migratory birds that travel across regions to meet their ecological needs. Observations indicate that about a quarter of the bird community in Kemuning Forest consists of migratory species, while the rest are resident species.

The Oriental honey buzzard (Pernis ptilorhynchus) migrates in groups from the northern hemisphere to the Greater Sunda region. Photo: Muhammad Rafi’ul Aziz

Initially, Perum Perhutani managed Kemuning Forest primarily for biodiversity protection and ecological functions. However, due to livelihood needs, local communities began cultivating coffee illegally in the forest in the 1970s. “Most of them were migrants—people in Kemuning Village initially did not own land for farming,” explained Pak Bejo, the village head. Over time, since 2005, the community and Perum Perhutani have collaborated to manage Kemuning Forest through shade-grown coffee systems to achieve shared prosperity for both nature and local communities. “Now everything is well organized. There is a formal village institution, and people follow the rules,” he added.

Some harvested coffee is processed locally using modern roasting equipment or traditional methods. Photo: Wiwid Prayoga

The concept of shade-grown coffee holds two key values: economic and conservation. Economically, coffee is a vital source of livelihood for the community. With coffee becoming increasingly popular and one of Indonesia’s major commodities, it offers opportunities for traditional farmers. From a conservation perspective, shade-grown coffee plantations provide suitable habitats for various wildlife species.

Many studies highlight birds as indicators of environmental health. Their presence reflects the balance between human care and human exploitation. Kemuning Forest and its people offer a powerful example of harmonious coexistence between humans and birds—achieving a shared goal: balance. They may not communicate directly, yet they form a deep, interconnected relationship. They do not exploit nature recklessly, nor do they allow it to disappear due to greed.

The crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela) perches after soaring in search of prey. Photo: Yopi Haryandi

As a tangible effort, the people of Kemuning Village implement local practices that support sustainability. They are allowed to enrich tree species with approved shade plants. Coffee requires shade trees to regulate sunlight, but beyond that, the community understands that diverse planting patterns create layered forest canopies. The more complex the canopy, the richer the resources available for birds. Abundant resources encourage migratory birds to stop and feed before continuing their journeys. The use of chemicals in coffee cultivation is also minimized.

“Every task must be done carefully. If we’re not careful, the forest could be damaged,” said Pak Kusniyanto, a member of the Argo Sejahtera Forest Community Institution.

The scarlet minivet (Pericrocotus flammeus) hunts insects in the lower canopy. Photo: Muhammad Rafi’ul Aziz

Unlike humans, bird behavior is guided by instinct passed down through generations, primarily to fulfill their own needs. Yet, these instincts create indirect benefits for other species. Insect-eating birds help control pests across all forest layers. Nectar feeders assist in pollination. Fruit-eating birds disperse seeds, contributing to ecosystem formation.

Thanks to these roles, farmers can reduce maintenance costs, and communities benefit from both environmental and personal well-being. Birds provide value that shapes human perspectives—reminding us that they deserve to be protected.

Coffee serves as the main livelihood for communities around Kemuning Forest, supporting both daily needs and education for future generations. Photo: Salahuddin Halim

On the other hand, human perspectives on birds are not always aligned, as different interests come into play. Weak enforcement of regulations can open opportunities for exploitation, such as hunting and other pressures. These threats must be addressed by both forest managers and communities who understand their importance. Otherwise, birds face only two options: leave or perish.

And when they are gone, will we finally realize how essential birds are to our lives?