Reaching beyond an entertainment venue, Siem Reap province’s Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium has become a centre for research, rescue and the conservation of many species.

Kor Phallis, marketing and sales coordinator at the facility, told The Post on May 27 that the multifaceted centre has garnered significant interest from tourists, particularly students, due to its focus on rescue, conservation and education. These efforts provide insights into local and global animal species, including rare and endangered ones, before they are rescued.

“The animals here are those unfit to be released into their natural habitats. For wild animals, if they are injured, our experts assess whether they need treatment or can be released. Some animals are domesticated species that have been traded. Releasing them into the wild would lead to their death. Additionally, we have many other rare species and fish, many of which are on the IUCN Red List,” he said.

“For education, we offer a special tour package for students in Siem Reap province at a discounted rate of only 10,000 riel per person, including students and teachers from both public and private schools, as long as they visit our facility,” he added.

The facility is home to many rare reptile species. Sous Yamy

According to Phallis, the centre, located about 20 kilometres from Siem Reap city, welcomes 100 to 300 visitors on regular days and over 300 on weekends.

Operational since 2022 and situated in Kbon village, Khchas commune, in Sot Nikum district, Angkor Wildlife & Aquarium features an aquarium showcasing various freshwater and saltwater fish species from both Cambodia and abroad.

Additionally, the facility houses diverse animals, including tigers, bears, gibbons and giant tortoises, as well as Siamese crocodiles and numerous other reptile species.

It also features a large aquarium, teeming with sealife. Sous Yamy