Cambodia: Wild Elephant Herd Returns to Forest After Damaging Crops

In Tbaeng Meanchey district, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia, a herd of six wild elephants that recently caused damage to residents' crops and homes has been confirmed to have left the district and returned to the forest. Speaking to Kampuchea Thmey Local on the afternoon of September 14, Mr. Khin Rasmy, the governor of Tbaeng Meanchey district, stated that the herd has returned to their natural habitat in the Preah Ro'kar forest. The return was confirmed by a special team from the district administration, which tracked the elephants' movements using a drone camera at 6:00 AM on September 13. The observation point was at the border between the Kulen Prohmtep Forest Cover Area and the Preah Ro'kar Forest Cover Area, in Okak village, Pot commune, Tbaeng Meanchey district. It is reported that the wild elephant population in the Chhep-Preah Ro'kar Wildlife Sanctuary ranges between 15 to 20 individuals, and receives significant attention and conservation efforts. Asian elephants are a critically endangered species globally, yet they continue to be present in Cambodia. According to research data from environmental ministry officials and related partners, herds of Asian elephants, or wild elephants, have been found in various protected areas in Cambodia, with many young elephants also observed. The continued appearance of these herds offers hope to environmental conservationists, demonstrating the effectiveness of forest protection and conservation efforts for elephant habitats and the preservation of this endangered species. This also contributes to maintaining environmental balance and protecting natural heritage.