AKP Phnom Penh, May 22, 2026 -- 
Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary (LWS) is a vital refuge for bird diversity, with a total of 308 bird species recorded by combining historical data with new findings. 
NatureLife Cambodia Organisation shared the update on the International Day for Biodiversity (May 22), based on a bird survey in the sanctuary. 
This includes Cambodia’s National Bird, the IUCN Red List Critically Endangered Giant Ibis, along with other globally threatened species, it underlined. 
According to NatureLife Cambodia, this rapid bird survey, conducted by the organisation in collaboration with the Rattanakiri and Mondulkiri Provincial Departments of Environment aimed to improve baseline data of bird species at Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary, and will be used to monitor the impacts of LWS REDD+ Project in the longer term. 
The survey recorded 182 bird species through direct sightings, including the Giant Ibis, White-shouldered Ibis, Red-headed Vulture, and Green Peafowl. These findings increased the bird species database for Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary from 202 to 308 species, of which 22 are classified as globally threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List (IUCN Red List). 
“The results of the bird study in Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary demonstrate the strong collaboration among partners, through a shared commitment to implementing joint actions for the protection and conservation of Cambodia’s rich natural resources, in line with the Ministry of Environment’s Circular Strategy 2023 (Clean, Green, and Sustainability). It is the first time that this sanctuary has developed a bird survey report, the confirmation of at least 308 bird species in this unique protected area, is a great baseline result,” said Mr. Phon Khemrin, the Director of the Rattanakiri Provincial Department of Environment. 
He also highlighted his department’s commitment to working with all key stakeholders to protect this globally important sanctuary, especially through the Lomphat REDD+ Project, adding that its mission goes beyond protecting birds; it involves maintaining a healthy ecosystem and ensuring the natural habitats and resources benefit the communities for years to come. 
“This survey result brings optimism regarding the forest and species conservation in Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary. It is a key indicator to measure the success of REDD+ Project implementation in this landscape. Mondulkiri Provincial Development of Environment reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding these bird species and their habitats. The presence of these bird species can attract more tourists to visit the northeastern provinces of Cambodia,” said Mr. Has Vibol, Director of the Mondulkiri Provincial Department of Environment. 
Mr. Bou Vorsak, CEO of NatureLife Cambodia laid stress on the importance of Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary as a bird area in the world that supports at least three Critical Endangered bird species, especially the National Bird of Cambodia, Giant Ibis. 
“Since 2023, we have been implementing the Lomphat REDD+ Project to protect these key wildlife species and ensure the local communities receive equitable benefit,” he said. “NatureLife Cambodia calls on all stakeholders to join hands with the Ministry of Environment to protect this REDD+ Project site for future generations.”

 
By C. Nika