Cambodia Launches GPS Tracking Trial for Critically Endangered Ibis

The Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) is undertaking a groundbreaking initiative to protect the critically endangered White-shouldered Ibis in Cambodia. The center has launched its first-ever GPS tracking trial for the rare bird species, aiming to gain in-depth insights into its ecology. In the coming weeks, four ibises will be released into their natural habitat, where their migration routes and daily foraging behaviors will be monitored. This data will form a crucial foundation for enhancing conservation efforts for the endangered species. ACCB announced on June 29 that GPS transmitters had been fitted to the birds' legs earlier this month. The devices were donated by Zoo and Chateau Zlín–Lešná in the Czech Republic, traveling from Poland to the UK before reaching Cambodia. As this is the first time such tracking devices have been used on this species, they are being trialed for at least four weeks in pre-release enclosures to ensure they function as expected and do not cause discomfort to the birds. Researchers report that everything is progressing well so far, and the birds are ready for their upcoming release. The ACCB describes the trial as a major milestone in the conservation of the species, which is found only at ACCB and within its narrow wild range. "This stands to be the world’s first release of white-shouldered ibis to the wild – an incredible achievement which could only be made possible with the support of all our partners," the center stated. In 2023, ACCB achieved another world first by successfully breeding the white-shouldered ibis in captivity, with the first chick hatching at the center. Less than 700 mature individuals are thought to remain worldwide, with the largest remaining population in Cambodia. They are found mainly in the northern and northeastern provinces, including Preah Vihear, Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri, Kratie, and Stung Treng, as well as the floodplains surrounding the Tonle Sap Lake.