PHNOM PENH: A biodiversity team from NatureLife Cambodia has reported the sighting of 22 Sarus Cranes at the Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary, marking a significant achievement in the ongoing conservation efforts for this vulnerable species.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the cranes, including eight young birds, were observed in seven different locations within the sanctuary. This count surpasses previous records, with the last high being 16 during the previous season. The sighting is seen as a testament to the success of biodiversity conservation efforts in the region.

The cranes were seen engaging in various natural behaviors such as flying, calling, and foraging, which indicates that Lomphat has become a preferred habitat for these birds. The sanctuary is one of the few places where the Mekong Basin population of Sarus Cranes breed and raise their young, and it has set a new record for the winter census.

USAID Morodok Baitang, in collaboration with NatureLife Cambodia, the Ministry of Environment, and the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund, has been implementing a range of conservation efforts. These include nest monitoring, forest patrols, and wildlife-friendly agriculture. The Sarus Crane conservation is part of the broader LWS REDD+ Project, which aims to protect biodiversity, local culture, and livelihoods, as well as contribute to atmospheric health through forest preservation.

The Sarus Crane species is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, with the Southeast Asian subspecies, including the Mekong Basin population, facing risk of extinction due to habitat loss and other threats. NatureLife Cambodia has urged the public to protect these iconic birds, emphasizing their cultural significance as symbols of loyal love and fidelity.

Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1993, spans 250,000 hectares, with the majority located in Rattanakiri province and the remainder in Mondulkiri province. It serves as a crucial area for the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity resources, particularly for rare and endangered bird species.