National
• 2 hours ago• Lim_Rothanaksambath
Wild Elephant Herd Spotted Near Villages in Preah Vihear, Authorities Monitor Movement
PHNOM PENH, August 24, 2026 – A herd of six wild elephants, including one calf, has been observed roaming near villages in Preah Vihear province, with authorities and conservation partners closely monitoring their movement to ensure both human and animal safety.
Since August 12, the Preah Vihear Provincial Environment Department, in cooperation with WCS and local authorities in Tbaeng Meanchey district, has been tracking the herd. The elephants have been spotted in the Chep-Preah Roka Wildlife Sanctuary, approximately three kilometres from nearby villages.
According to officials, the elephants have not caused any conflict with humans and appear to have settled in the O Sreng Sralau area. However, some reports from residents have raised concerns about crop damage. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and have conducted awareness sessions with local communities to educate them on wildlife protection and avoidance of conflict with the endangered Asian elephants.
Photo: Ministry of Environment
The Chep-Preah Roka Wildlife Sanctuary is home to an estimated 15 to 20 wild elephants. Across Cambodia's protected areas, the Asian elephant population is estimated at between 400 and 600 individuals, with ongoing sightings of calves indicating successful conservation efforts.
The continued presence of wild elephant herds is seen as a positive sign of effective forest protection and conservation, offering hope for the preservation of this endangered species and the maintenance of ecological balance.
— Source: Ministry of Environment
Reported by The Khmer Daily Network
Since August 12, the Preah Vihear Provincial Environment Department, in cooperation with WCS and local authorities in Tbaeng Meanchey district, has been tracking the herd. The elephants have been spotted in the Chep-Preah Roka Wildlife Sanctuary, approximately three kilometres from nearby villages.
According to officials, the elephants have not caused any conflict with humans and appear to have settled in the O Sreng Sralau area. However, some reports from residents have raised concerns about crop damage. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation and have conducted awareness sessions with local communities to educate them on wildlife protection and avoidance of conflict with the endangered Asian elephants.
Photo: Ministry of EnvironmentThe Chep-Preah Roka Wildlife Sanctuary is home to an estimated 15 to 20 wild elephants. Across Cambodia's protected areas, the Asian elephant population is estimated at between 400 and 600 individuals, with ongoing sightings of calves indicating successful conservation efforts.
The continued presence of wild elephant herds is seen as a positive sign of effective forest protection and conservation, offering hope for the preservation of this endangered species and the maintenance of ecological balance.
— Source: Ministry of Environment
Reported by The Khmer Daily Network
