Survey Records Rare Wildlife Species in Cambodia’s Cardamom Mountains

PHNOM PENH, July 6, 2026 (KPT) — A three‑month environmental survey has documented 14 rare, endangered and near‑threatened species in Cambodia’s Cardamom Mountains National Park, underscoring the ecological importance of the protected area, the Ministry of Environment said Monday.

Conducted from April to June under the Cambodia Landscape and Ecotourism Sustainability Project, the study involved technical teams from the ministry and the Department of Conservation of Southern Tonle Sap Protected Areas.

Among the species identified were Asian Elephant, Gaur, Southern Serow, Sambar, Sun Bear, Asiatic Black Bear, Marbled Cat, Dhole, Northern Pig‑tailed Macaque, Large Indian Civet, Sunda Pangolin and Spotted Linsang.

Officials said the findings highlight the park’s role in sustaining diverse wildlife across Kampong Speu and Koh Kong provinces.

The survey also recorded the smooth‑coated otter, a semi‑aquatic species found in rivers, lakes and mangrove forests.

Known for its sleek body and flattened tail, the otter typically lives in family groups and feeds on fish, crabs and other aquatic animals. It is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List due to hunting, trapping and habitat loss.

According to the ministry, the continued presence of such species demonstrates the importance of ongoing protection efforts in Cambodia’s forest and wetland ecosystems.

The findings would support conservation planning and ecotourism initiatives aimed at safeguarding biodiversity while promoting sustainable livelihoods.