Nature : Cambodia Ibis Working Group Releases 2023 Annual Report Highlighting Breakthrough Conservation Efforts

The Cambodia Ibis Working Group (CIWG) proudly announces the release of its 2023 Annual Report, celebrating examples of dedicated collaborative conservation efforts for Cambodia's critically endangered (Thaumatibis gigantea) and White-shouldered Ibis (Pseudibis davisoni). Covering activities from January 1 to December 31, 2023, the report highlights significant strides made in protecting and preserving these iconic species.

According to a press release issued on Friday, in 2023, the CIWG, composed of governmental and non-governmental organisations, achieved remarkable milestones in conservation, which included a global breakthrough with the first successful captive breeding of the White-shouldered Ibis and field monitoring efforts which uncovered over 40 Giant Ibis nests, reflecting a promising rise in nest success from the previous year.

The White-shouldered Ibis breeding season saw a significant surge, with 175 chicks successfully fledging from monitored nests. A national census further underscored the significance of these efforts, recording 784 White-shouldered Ibises – an impressive 87-95 percent of the global population – marking a critical milestone in their conservation.

H.E. Khvay Atitya, Undersecretary of State and Spokesperson of the Ministry of Environment, stated "Cambodia is at the forefront of global efforts to conserve the Giant Ibis and White- shouldered Ibis, as the majority of their remaining populations reside within the Kingdom. This is a success of our conservation efforts to ensure the preservation and conservation of all natural resources in the protected area. The Ministry of Environment, stakeholders, and NGO partners need to continue implementation of the Royal Government of Cambodia's strategy to preserve the natural resources while the ‘Circular Strategy on Environment’ aims to ensure that Cambodia remains clean, green, and sustainable, with the particular focus on safeguarding these iconic birds from extinction."

Throughout 2023, CIWG's conservation efforts focused on critical habitats in eastern and northeastern Cambodia, including Preah Vihear, Stung Treng, Kratie, Mondulkiri, and Rattanakiri provinces. These areas are essential for the survival of both ibis species, where in-situ monitoring and rescue operations are ongoing.

"The CIWG's 2023 ex-situ conservation efforts at the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB), including the historic successful breeding of the White-shouldered Ibis, have been groundbreaking," said CIWG members.

"These achievements highlight the crucial role of ex-situ management in enhancing the survival of critically endangered species and underscore the need for continued conservation work. Formed to pool resources and collaborate on conserving these two critically endangered ibis species, the CIWG relies on the annual Cambodian Ibis Conservation Report to track progress against the national Ibis Conservation Action Plan. The current results are the fruit of joint efforts and a strong encouragement to continue our work toward the conservation and protection of these species' habitats, which are vital for their future in Cambodia."

The Giant Ibis and White-shouldered Ibis face ongoing threats from habitat loss and human activities such as hunting. As Cambodia's national bird, the Giant Ibis, with fewer than 200 mature individuals globally, and the increasingly vulnerable White-shouldered Ibis, highlight the urgent need for continued conservation efforts. The CIWG calls on the people of Cambodia to join in these crucial efforts to protect and ensure a thriving future for these magnificent birds. “We also encourage decision-makers and researchers to consult this report when developing landscape management plans, investment strategies, and research projects,” it said.

The CIWG continues to drive collaborative efforts in preserving Cambodia's natural heritage, with regular meetings and strategic planning sessions ensuring that both the Giant Ibis and White- shouldered Ibis are given the best chance of survival. The group's 2023 annual report not only underscores the achievements of the past year but also sets the stage for future conservation actions.