New research documents significant wildlife presence in a previously unsurveyed area, strengthening the case for expanded conservation efforts
Phnom Penh, Cambodia — Newly published research in the Journal for Nature Conservation confirms the presence of seven IUCN-threatened mammal species in the newly expanded southern region of Cambodia’s Veun Sai-Siem Pang National Park.
In this previously unsurveyed area, camera trap research conducted by Wild Earth Allies, Conservation International Cambodia, the Stung Treng Department of Environment, and the Ministry of Environment revealed the presence of three Critically Endangered species — banteng (Bos javanicus), Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica), and red-shanked douc langur (Pygathrix nemaeus) — as well as one Endangered species, the northern yellow-cheeked crested gibbon (Nomascus annamensis), and three Vulnerable species: mainland serow (Capricornis sumatraensis), Malayan sun bear (Helarctos malayanus), and mainland clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa).
Because many of these species are rarely observed in the wild, the camera-trap records are particularly valuable for understanding population status and distribution. The findings challenge previous assumptions that these species were absent from this landscape and underscore the need for continued research and targeted protection of these threatened, geographically restricted species. The authors argue the findings support the designation of Veun Sai-Siem Pang National Park as a Key Biodiversity Area under the IUCN–CEPF framework.
“This finding confirms the highly effective management of protected areas, which has demonstrated an effective management approach that provides a safe and secure habitat for biodiversity resources in the region,” said H.E. Atitya Kvay, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Environment. “Therefore, we must help promote the importance of protecting, preserving, and managing them well. We must continue to work hard and smart to protect and study more biodiverse species.”
The newly expanded southern region of Veun Sai-Siem Pang National Park spans parts of Ratanakiri and Stung Treng provinces. Researchers documented 47 total species across the survey area, including 26 mammal species, 18 bird species, and three reptile species. Despite the park’s ecological significance, the authors note that comprehensive biodiversity surveys and monitoring efforts in the region remain limited — making findings like these an important step toward evidence-based conservation decision-making.
“These findings underscore the need for collaborative conservation among government agencies, NGOs, and local communities to protect globally threatened species within the park,” said Neang Thy, Wild Earth Allies Conservation Manager and a co-author of the research. “The work ahead to safeguard this rich biodiversity is urgent.”
About Wild Earth Allies
Wild Earth Allies is reshaping how conservation works by building long-term partnerships with local organizations and leaders in high-biodiversity areas worldwide. Through deep collaboration, strategic support, and shared learning, we advance conservation rooted in local values, knowledge, and practices—so wildlife and people can flourish together in healthy ecosystems that sustain us all. wildearthallies.org.
Photo: Red-shanked douc langur (Pygathrix nemaeus)
Camera trap imagery of all seven species documented in this study is available upon request.
Media Contact
Laura Milton
lmilton@wildearthallies.org
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