The Bukit Gasing forest was until 50 years ago a rubber plantation. Since tapping ceased the hill has slowly reverted to secondary forest and although there are still a number of rubber trees many new plants and trees have grown from seeds carried on the wind or dropped by birds. In this isolated forest many species of small animals have found refuge.

Although as yet there is no complete inventory of the animal and plants to be found on Bukit Gasing today, 120 species of birds have been recorded. The most notable animals are of course the two species of monkeys. The ubiquitous Common Macaques and the very attractive grey and white Banded Leaf Monkeys which almost daily draw attention to themselves as they leap from tree to tree giving their loud calls kaak-kaak kaak. There are two species of squirrel, the Grey-bellied and the Plaintain Squirrel though the most often seen ’squirrel’ is not a squirrel at all but the Common Tree Shrew. This little animal with its long pointed face is frequently to be seen running hastily crossing the road. There are at least 14 species of frogs and toads which on rainy nights provide a chorus that competes with the crickets, grasshoppers and the myriad of insects that are a feature of Malaysian forests.

Many small lizards, some called geckoes, inhabit the forest and a few of these enter our houses where they feed on mosquitoes and other insects. There is also the large Clouded Monitor Lizard that can grow to a metre or more in length. Eating a variety of carrion, worms and insects this is not a particularly dangerous animal but it can give a severe bite if improperly handled. In addition there is a single species of tortoise known as the Hill Stream Turtle and of course many snakes. Most of the snakes are small and non-venomous to man but one does have to be aware of the Reticulated Python.  Recently, a 4 metre specimen was caught after it had taken the neighbours cat! All pythons of 3 metres and above must be considered dangerous.

One of the major threats to Bukit Gasing wildlife is the packs of ‘wild dogs’. These are domestic dogs that have become feral. They are a nuisance to residents because of their persistent barking and could be a danger to walkers especially if the pack is accompanied by puppies. Undoubtedly, they feed on small mammals and birds and steps should be taken to remove them. With good care and management Bukit Gasing could become a model urban sanctuary protecting a representative sample of Malaysian lowland plants and animals.

by Ken Scriven