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Indigenous Knowledge Revives Critically Endangered Crocodile in Cambodia
29 Sep
Summary
- Indigenous knowledge led to the rediscovery of Siamese crocodiles in Cambodia.
- A 315-hectare wetland in Pursat province is now a protected genetic conservation area.
- Over 246 Siamese crocodiles have been released into the wild since 2011.
Indigenous Chorng communities in Cambodia's remote Cardamom mountains have been instrumental in the revival of the Siamese crocodile, a species once feared extinct.
Their knowledge of the reptile's presence in local wetlands, passed to researchers in 2000, led to the species' official recording. This pivotal information underpins ongoing conservation initiatives.
As a result, a 315-hectare wetland in Pursat province, northern Cardamom mountains, was formally designated a genetic conservation area on July 22nd. This site safeguards a critical wild population of at least 40 Siamese crocodiles, vital for species recovery.
Conservation efforts include a breeding program established by Fauna & Flora International in 2011, which has since released 246 crocodiles back into the wild. Some are tagged for tracking, with community wardens actively monitoring habitats and potential threats.
Recent findings in 2024 revealed 106 eggs across five wild nests, resulting in the emergence of 60 hatchlings—the largest recorded wild breeding event this century. The community's involvement is deemed essential for the program's success.
