A young Siamese crocodile is released into the Virachey National Park, for the first time in 20 years. Fauna & Flora Cambodia
A total of 10 juvenile Siamese crocodiles – equipped with tracking devices – have been released for the first time into the remote and human-free areas of Virachey National Park. This marks the species' return to the park after an absence of over 20 years.
The release was carried out through a collaboration between Fauna & Flora Cambodia, the Ministry of Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry Fisheries, and the local administration.
The initiative follows a comprehensive evaluation of suitable habitats from 2021 to 2023, which identified the remote areas in the park that would provide the best conditions for the rare reptiles (crocodylus siamensis).
A joint statement on March 18 highlighted the use novel acoustic telemetry technology which uses sound to monitor the movements and survival of the crocodiles, contributing valuable data for conservation efforts and the further reintroduction of the species.
Pablo Sinovas, country director of Fauna & Flora Cambodia, explained that over the past 25 years, the organisation, alongside the government and local communities, has worked tirelessly to protect and conserve the species, preventing it from extinction in the wild.
These efforts have led to positive outcomes and a significant resurgence in conservation initiatives in recent years.
“We have been releasing more and more Siamese crocodiles from year to year, and we are observing an increase in successful breeding in their natural habitats,” added Sinovas.
In general, the species takes over 10 years to reach maturity. The crocodiles which were just released are part of a programme which will increase natural breeding in the wild, meaning the wild population will increase.
Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Dith Tina expressed his appreciation for the support of Fauna & Flora Cambodia and other partners in restoring the presence of crocodiles in Cambodia’s natural habitats.
“Since 2011, the ministry has successfully reintroduced Siamese crocodiles into the Cardamom Mountain range 12 times. We will continue to work with Fauna & Flora Cambodia to enhance conservation efforts in Cambodia,” he said.
Minister of Environment Eang Sophalleth highlighted the ministry’s work in strictly enforcing regulations to manage natural resources and protect biodiversity, including vital wildlife resources.
The environment ministry has committed to supporting global biodiversity frameworks, particularly Goal 4, which focuses on preventing species extinction.
“The crocodile is one of the rarest species on Earth, yet we see most of them in Cambodia, thanks to our collective efforts. This is a source of pride for our country,” added Sophalleth.
He added that the ministry will continue to strengthen its environmental strategy, particularly with the second goal, “Greening”, which focuses on preserving biodiversity and forest resources, promoting the planting of trees and reforesting to enhance green cover.
In addition, the ministry is collaborating with relevant government institutions, local communities and conservation organisations in protected areas to generate sustainable income and improve the livelihoods of residents, all while ensuring the long-term conservation of wildlife habitats.
As of now, nearly 200 Siamese crocodiles have been successfully released into remote, human-free habitats in the Cardamom Mountain range, and an additional 60 hatchlings have been discovered in the region.
The Virachey National Park, historically home to a crocodile population, is also witnessing efforts to restore the species. The park covers an area of 40,576 hectares in Ratanakkiri and Stung Treng provinces.
