PHNOM PENH: According to a provisional report released by the Ministry of Environment on Monday, 19 December, the crane population in Cambodia dropped to just over 150 in 2022.

In 2020, a total of 194 cranes were recorded in Cambodia, however, this number dropped to 164 in 2021. The number then continued to fall to just over 150 as of November this year.

The Secretary of State and Spokesperson for the Ministry of Environment, Neth Pheaktra, told EAC News that cranes in Cambodia frace threats from hunting, poisoning, habitat loss, and egg theft during the breeding season, causing the reduction of the crane population in 2022.

"Stealing eggs and using dogs to hunt for cranes has threatened their population, as they do not lay their eggs in trees because their legs cannot stand on branches, and they lay their eggs on grass fields instead,” he said.

He added that the Ministry of Environment is working with relevant organizations to try and conserve the crane population and protect their habitat. At the same time, he said that he urges farmers in regions where cranes are found to refrain from using pesticides and other chemicals, as doing so may result in a further decline in the crane population.

Cranes in Cambodia are present in three locations: Ang Trapeang Thmor in Banteay Meanchey Province, Anlung Pring Sanctuary in Kampot Province, and Boeung Prek Lapouv Protected Area in Takeo Province. Cranes migrate to the wetlands from December to February every year seeking food, and when it is time for them to lay their eggs, they migrate to the forests in Preah Vihear, Ratanakkiri, and Mondulkiri provinces.

Currently, between 13,000 and 15,000 cranes are present in India, Australia, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Cranes have been present in Cambodia for a long time, and have also been identified in carvings found at the Bayon temple in Siem Reap. In Myanmar, cranes are associated with Buddhism.

In Asia, cranes are seen by many to represent good fortune and longevity. They are also thought to be a symbol of sincere love.