Crocker Range National Park

Papar-District Sabah Rainforests-of-Crocker-Mountain-Range-01

Crocker Range National Park is a significant national park located in the state of Sabah, Malaysia, on the island of Borneo. Established in 1984, it covers an area of approximately 1,399 square kilometers, making it the largest terrestrial park in Sabah. The park is named after the Crocker Range, a mountain range that stretches across the western side of Sabah. It is a vital conservation area, recognized for its high biodiversity and unique ecosystems, ranging from lowland rainforests to montane and sub-alpine forests.

Geography

The Crocker Range extends over 300 kilometers, with elevations ranging from 100 meters to the peak of Mount Alab at 1,952 meters. The park's rugged terrain includes deep valleys, high ridges, and a multitude of rivers and streams. Its geographical features play a crucial role in the water catchment for the surrounding areas, supplying fresh water to much of the western coast of Sabah.

Biodiversity

Crocker Range National Park is renowned for its rich biodiversity. It is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several endemic species. The park's forests are a haven for over 500 species of birds, numerous mammals like the Bornean orangutan, gibbons, and the Sumatran rhinoceros, as well as a plethora of plant species, including the Rafflesia, the world's largest flower. The diverse habitats within the park, from lowland rainforests to high altitude cloud forests, contribute to the vast array of life forms found here.

Conservation

The park plays a critical role in the conservation of Borneo's unique biodiversity. It is part of the Heart of Borneo initiative, a tri-nation effort by Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei to conserve the biodiversity of Borneo through a network of protected areas and sustainable land management. Efforts within the park include habitat protection, research, and monitoring of species, as well as community engagement and education programs to promote conservation awareness.

Tourism and Recreation

Crocker Range National Park offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors, including hiking, bird watching, and nature photography. The park's extensive trail system provides opportunities to explore its natural beauty, from the dense lowland forests to the misty highlands. Notable attractions within the park include the Rafflesia Information Centre, where visitors can learn about and potentially witness the blooming of the giant Rafflesia flower, and the Salt Trails, historic routes once used by indigenous people for trade.

Challenges

Despite its protected status, Crocker Range National Park faces several challenges, including illegal logging, poaching, and the encroachment of agriculture at its boundaries. Climate change also poses a threat to the park's ecosystems, potentially affecting species distribution and forest health. Conservation efforts continue to address these challenges, aiming to preserve the park's natural heritage for future generations.

See Also

• National parks of Malaysia
• Biodiversity of Borneo
• Conservation in Malaysia

Crocker Range National Park Resources
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