The islands of Indonesia, which are also collectively called the Indonesian Archipelago, are located to the northwest of Australia and span from western Malaysia across to New Guinea. These islands, including Bali and the island systems of Java and Sumatra, are home to many unique species of wildlife, such as the rare and endangered Sumatran Orangutan. About a quarter of the mammal species found on the islands are endemic.
The Official National Animal of Indonesia (Islands)
The national animal of Indonesia is the Komodo Dragon. This rare and dangerous giant lizard is found on several of the islands, including Komodo. They also have a national bird, which is the unique Javan Hawk-eagle.
Where To Find The Top Wild Animals in Indonesia (Islands)
The best places to see the wildlife on Indonesia’s islands are probably the national parks and other nature preserves. Certainly, this is the safest way to see elephants and Komodo Dragons. There are parks found on nearly every island, including Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, and Sunda.
The Most Dangerous Animals In Indonesia (Islands) Today
The most dangerous animals in the Indonesia islands include:
- Komodo Dragon
- Rove beetles – they neither sting nor bite, but if one is crushed on your skin, their toxin is released, causing painful, dangerous sores to erupt.
- Bali dogs
Endangered Animals
Sadly, because the islands of Indonesia have so many endemic and unique species, much of its wildlife is endangered, including its national animal and its national bird. Several species will go extinct in the wild without intervention. Other endangered animals on the islands include:
- Sumatran tigers – with fewer than 400 remaining, they may soon be extinct.
- Javan rhinoceros
- Sumatran elephant