AKP Phnom Penh, February 28, 2025 --

A team of conservationists have recently spotted a herd of wild gaurs roaming peacefully in Phnom Thnoat Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Preah Vihear province.

Captured on camera, the herd consisted of more than 10 individuals, including males, females, and juveniles.

The gaur (Bos gaurus), a rare and endangered species, is listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List.

The sighting has been hailed as a significant conservation success by Cambodia’s Spokesperson for the Ministry of Environment, H.E. Khvay Atitya, who emphasised the importance of continued efforts to protect the country’s rich biodiversity.

“This is a testament to our conservation success,” said H.E Khvay Atitya. “We urge local authorities and communities to work together in safeguarding these globally significant natural resources, ensuring their long-term survival for ecological balance and sustainable development.”

Gaurs inhabit forested regions in northeastern, southwestern, and northern Cambodia, often coexisting with other wild bovines such as banteng and wild water buffalo. They are typically found in dense forests near rivers, grasslands, and bamboo groves, where they graze on a variety of vegetation.

Phnom Thnoat-Phnom Pok Wildlife Sanctuary was officially designated by the Cambodian government under Sub-Decree No. 176 on July 17, 2023. Covering 51,730 hectares across Preah Vihear and Siem Reap provinces, the sanctuary provides critical habitat for numerous endangered species, including the recently spotted gaur herd.

This discovery underscores the importance of Cambodia’s ongoing conservation efforts and highlights the need for continued community engagement in protecting the country’s unique wildlife.

By K. Rithy Reak