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Cambodia Vultures Soar: Population Up 22%!
30 Sep
Summary
- Cambodia's rarest vulture species increased by 22% to 163 birds.
- This marks the highest count since monitoring began in 2016.
- Conservation efforts are vital to protect critically endangered species.
The population of Cambodia's three rarest vulture species has experienced a notable upswing, with the most recent survey revealing a 22% increase. This brings the total count to 163 birds as of 2025, marking the highest number recorded since monitoring commenced in 2016. The Cambodia Vulture Working Group (CVWG) views this growth as a positive indicator of Cambodia's significance as a vital sanctuary for vultures across Asia.
These species, critically endangered on the IUCN Red List, are primarily found in remote dry forests in northern and eastern Cambodia. Conservation initiatives, a partnership between government institutions and conservation organizations formalized as the CVWG in 2017, have been ongoing for over two decades. This collaborative effort aims to sustain the progress made and address continuing threats like habitat loss and accidental poisoning.
Conservationists stress that while the results are encouraging, continued cooperation among government bodies, conservation partners, and local communities is essential. The CVWG is also formulating a 10-year conservation action plan to bolster the long-term survival prospects of these vulnerable birds. The government has expressed encouragement, viewing the increase as a testament to successful joint conservation measures and Cambodia's commitment to protecting vulture populations.
