Phnom penh: A flock of approximately 20 endangered Green Peafowls has been spotted foraging at the foothills of the Phnom Oral Wildlife Sanctuary, marking a significant success for local conservation efforts. The sighting was recorded on Monday by park rangers during a patrol using the Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool (SMART).
According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the mission was conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment's "Cambodia Sustainable Landscape and Ecotourism Project" within the Kampong Speu province sector of the sanctuary. The Green Peafowl (Pavo muticus), known for the male's vibrant green plumage and iconic "eye-spotted" tail feathers, is currently classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. It is also listed under Appendix II of the CITES convention.
While historically found across various habitats in Cambodia - including deciduous and semi-evergreen forests - the species faces severe threats from illegal poaching and trapping, as well as habitat loss due to land encroachment. Environmental officials noted that the presence of such a large flock suggests a stabilising ecosystem within the protected area.
The Ministry of Environment attributed the sighting to increased patrol efficiency and stricter enforcement of the Environment and Natural Resources Code. "The peaceful existence of these birds confirms that wildlife and biodiversity in our protected areas are being preserved effectively," a Ministry representative stated. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to a "zero-tolerance" policy regarding environmental crimes, vowing to continue crackdowns on illegal activities that threaten Cambodia's natural heritage.