Vultures feed on the carcass of a cow at a previous ‘vulture restaurant’ in the north of the country. - Photo: Birdlife Cambodia
PHNOM PENH: The Cambodia Vulture Working Group (CVWG) has released its annual report for 2023, which reveals strong progress in the conservation of three critically endangered species: the White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis), Slender-billed Vulture (Gyps tenuirostris), and Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus).
One key part of their efforts is the “vulture restaurant” initiative, where carcasses are provided at designated sites to support the vultures.
This helps provide supplementary food to mitigate food shortages and allows for accurate population monitoring through national censuses.
In June 2023, the minimum estimated population was at 132 across the three species, suggesting that populations are stabilising, after years of decline.
The working group is chaired by the Ministry of Environment and coordinated by NatureLife Cambodia, and works with numerous partner organisations to support the recovery of these precious creatures.
"After years of decline, we are seeing encouraging signs of stability in Cambodia’s vulture populations.
"This latest result indicated that Cambodia’s Protected Area system is playing a key role in providing safe habitats for wildlife and biodiversity that allows them to live and reproduce without threat.
"The ecosystems within these natural protected areas are sustainable supporting our critically endangered vulture species," said Khvay Atitya, undersecretary of state and Spokesperson for the environment ministry.
"This report underscores the importance of continued collaboration and innovative conservation strategies to protect these iconic species," he added.
In report also noted the working group’s other crucial activities, including nest monitoring, protection efforts and addressing the threat of poisoning.
Last year, they investigated eight poisoning incidents, and dealt with them swiftly.
No vulture deaths due to poisoning have been recorded this year.
In 2023, CVWG members located 30 nests across Cambodia and the Laos-border, achieving a remarkable 87 per cent success rate in fledging 26 chicks.
This represents the highest number of successful fledges on record.
"We are thrilled with the breeding success this year.
"The chicks represent hope for the future of Cambodia’s vultures.
"It’s a testament to the effectiveness of our conservation strategies and the dedication of our team on the ground," said the CVWG.
Tracking of wild vultures is also underway, with the results expected to provide valuable data for future conservation strategies.
"One of the most heartwarming stories of the year was the rescue of a sick Red-headed Vulture chick at Srepok Wildlife Sactuary, which after intensive rehabilitation by the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) was released back into the wild at Siem Pang Wildlife Sanctuary.
"The chick was fitted with a tracking device to monitor its progress," added the report.
In the near future, the CVWG intends to publish updated scientific literature on Cambodia’s vulture populations and the current threats they are facing. - The Phnom Penh Post/ANN
