Comeback of rare Siamese crocodiles in Cambodia

Animal protectors celebrate success - Comeback of rare Siamese crocodiles in Cambodia

In a wildlife protection area in Cambodia, nature protectors discovered 106 eggs of an extremely rare crocodile species: The Siamese crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis), which only occurs in parts of Southeast Asia, is listed as "critically endangered" on the IUCN list. Land Management Minister Dith Tina spoke of a significant success in the fight for the protection of these endangered animals.

This is the largest discovery in over 20 years that the species still reproduces in the wild, according to the organization "Flora & Fauna". They work with the government to strengthen the wild population of Siamese crocodiles. Estimates suggest that there are only about 1000 living specimens worldwide, of which 300 are in Cambodia.

60 mini crocodiles hatched

This discovery significantly increases the chances of survival for this reptile species, it was further reported. The eggs were found in May in a national park in the Cardamom Mountains in southwestern Cambodia. A total of 60 baby crocodiles hatched at the end of June.

The population of Siamese crocodiles has been declining mainly due to hunting and the loss of their natural habitat. The authorities are working with nature conservation organizations to revive the populations - with success.

The animals have been bred in captivity for years and then released into the wild. However, it is also important to provide them with an appropriate habitat where they are safe from poaching and logging, said Flora & Fauna country director Pablo Sinovas.

Locals revere the species

A total of 196 Siamese crocodiles bred in captivity have been successfully released as part of the program since 2012. A great help in this were the local people, who revered the reptiles, it was reported. Among them, it is taboo to kill or harm Siamese crocodiles.

The animals grow up to four meters long and have a relatively wide snout. They live exclusively in sweetwater habitats such as rivers, lakes or swamps. According to IUCN, there are still specimens in the wild in Thailand, Laos, and in Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo.

1. In light of this successful hatching, animal protectors in Phnom Penh are planning a comeback for the Siamese crocodile in Southeast Asia, aiming to increase their population numbers.
2. The level of excitement among wildlife enthusiasts in Cambodia and beyond has reached new heights, as they follow the wild track of the Siamese crocodile's recovery in their natural habitat.
3. To ensure the survival of the baby crocodiles, the government, in collaboration with organizations like Flora & Fauna, is working on preserving wildtrack areas in Cambodia, such as the Cardamom Mountains, where these rare reptiles can thrive.
4. As the population of Siamese crocodiles continues to grow thanks to conservation efforts, science and research play a crucial role in understanding their behavior and habitat needs in order to protect them further in Cambodia and beyond.

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