Posted on September, 04 2024

The report highlights the collaborative efforts undertaken by CVWG members from January to December 2023, showcasing both the challenges faced and successes achieved in protecting these vital species. A cornerstone of the CVWG’s efforts is the "vulture restaurant" initiative, where domestic livestock carcasses are provided at designated sites to support the vultures. This initiative helps provide Cambodia’s Vulture population with supplementary food to mitigate food shortages and allows for accurate population monitoring through synchronized national census events. In June 2023, the Minimum Population Estimate was recorded at 132 vultures across the three species, marking a stabilising trend after years of decline.
 
H.E Khvay Atitya, Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Environment, stated “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 allow them to live and reproduce without threat. The ecosystems within these natural protected areas are sustainable supporting our critically endangered vulture species”, He added, “This report underscores the importance of continued collaboration and innovative conservation strategies to protect these iconic species.”
 
Providing food at vulture restaurants is not just about sustaining the population—it’s about giving these birds a fighting chance for survival. Our efforts are making a tangible difference, as evidenced by this year’s stable population numbers. In addition to feeding initiatives, the report highlights other critical activities, such as nest monitoring, protection efforts, and combating poisoning threats. In 2023, CVWG members located 30 vulture nests across Cambodia and Laos-border, achieving a remarkable 87% 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 CVWG members.

Download the PDF file for the full press release!