KAMPONG THOM: In recognition of International Migratory Bird Day on May 13, 2023, NatureLife Cambodia released its findings of a migratory bird census conducted earlier that month in the Boeung Tonle Chhmar Lake. Their findings further emphasized the importance of the lake as a key haven and food source for a variety of migratory birds.

“Our trip recorded included the Black-tailed godwit, the Glossy Ibis, Black-head Ibis, Painted Stork, Asian Openbill, Spot-billed Duck, Black-winged Stilt… Asian openbill forage in the flocks of thousands. Our team also recorded the increasing of people who conduct small shell fishing in this lake,” the report stated.

Boeung Tonle Chhmar is a state owned sanctuary that borders the Tonle Sap during the dry season, but becomes a part of the large lake when its waters rise during the rainy season. The sanctuary is an example of near natural South Asian wetland. The area plays an integral role for many plant and animal species which are listed as rare, vulnerable or globally endangered. Since 2021, NatureLife, with the help of the European Union, has supported regular patrols of the area to monitor biodiversity and violations of natural resource protection laws.

NatureLife Cambodia is a conservationist NGO which branched out from Birdlife International in 2020. Its main missions are maintaining and preserving wildlife in Cambodia; conserving sites and habitats for biodiversity; contributing to the alleviation of poverty by enhancing the sustainable use of natural resources, and building the capacity and promoting conservation work among Cambodian citizens.