A proud red-headed vulture parent gazes out from its nest in Kratie province’s Sambor Wildlife Sanctuary. WWF Cambodia
A total of 18 nests belonging to vulnerable and critically endangered bird species, along with 13 newborn chicks, have been discovered in Kratie province’s Sambor Wildlife Sanctuary.
The discoveries were made over the course of a four day census, conducted last week.
Community members from seven nearby villagers collaborated with a biodiversity research and monitoring team from WWF Cambodia to carry out the survey of nesting sites.
In a February 10 statement, WWF Cambodia described the results of the survey as “exciting and encouraging”.
They noted that 12 white-shouldered ibis nests, 5 lesser adjutant nests and one red-headed vulture nest were discovered.
“Our team even spotted eight white-shouldered ibis fledglings and five lesser adjutant fledglings flying from their nests,” added the organisation.
These findings highlight the crucial role that local communities play in conservation efforts, as they contribute to data collection and provide key insights into the best ways to protect these highly vulnerable bird species from threats.
In November 2024, WWF Cambodia previously announced the first discovery of white-shouldered ibis nests near Srepok Wildlife Sanctuary in Mondulkiri province.
Cambodia is home to the world's largest population of giant ibis, with 784 individuals recorded, approximately 87 to 95 per cent of the global population of this critically endangered species.
The white-shouldered ibis (Pseudibis davisoni), listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), is also found in Cambodia year-round.
These birds typically inhabit dry forests, wetlands, and riverbanks, particularly in the northern and northeastern provinces such as PreahVihear, Mondulkiri, Ratanakkiri, Kratie and Stung Treng as well as the floodplains around Tonle Sap Lake.
To support conservation efforts, the Cambodian government expanded the Sambor Wildlife Sanctuary from 50,000 hectares to over 80,000 hectares in 2023. The expansion aimed to safeguard natural resources, maintain ecological balance, protect cultural and traditional heritage, and enhance the livelihoods of local communities.
