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Natural Resource Management

Mondulkiri (May 25, 2017) - Recent images from hidden cameras placed in Keo Seima Wildlife Sanctuary (KSWS), in Kratie and Mondulkiri Provinces, have confirmed the protected area's ongoing importance for many of Cambodia's most charismatic species. Wildlife recorded include Asian Elephant, Guar, Banteng, Sambar, Wild Pig, Leopard Cat, Macaque species (Pig-tailed, Long-tailed and Stump-tailed), East Asian Porcupine, Large Indian Civet, Lesser Oriental Chevrotain, Green Peafowl, Germain's Peacock Pheasant and other wild birds.

In April this year, WCS’s Wildlife Research and Monitoring Team placed hidden cameras (called camera trap) traps at natural waterholes and wildlife hotspots in order to record wild mammals and birds living in KSWS. This study was to check for the continued presence of difficult to see wildlife.
“This study again confirms that key wildlife species are still living in KSWS, making it a very important protected area in Cambodia for wildlife conservation,” said Sot Vandoeun, WCS’s Wildlife Research and Monitoring Team Leader.

KSWS is of international importance for the conservation of primates (including the world’s largest known populations of Black-shanked Douc and Southern Yellow-cheeked Crested Gibbons), Wild Cats, Asian Elephants, Wild Cattles and several species of birds. However, these important species are under threats due to illegal poaching and habitat loss that requires strong protection to secure their lives and habitat.

“Strengthening law enforcement is critical to ensure Cambodia’s unique wildlife remain in KSWS. We need government and local communities to work together to reduce threats on KSWS’s forests and wildlife resources,” said Soth Vandoeun said. “All Cambodians also play a key role in conserving wildlife by refusing to buy and eat wild meat,” he added.

Keo Seima project would not be possible without the support of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and Fonds Français pour l'Environnement Mondial (FFEM), and the European Union (EU).