Phnom TaMao | Cambodia Province

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center (PTWRC) is Cambodia’s largest wildlife sanctuary, located in Takeo Province, about 40 kilometers south of Phnom Penh. It spans over 2,500 hectares of protected forest and serves as a crucial rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation facility for the country's endangered wildlife. Established in 1995, the center is managed by the Cambodian Forestry Administration in collaboration with international conservation organizations, most notably Wildlife Alliance.

Purpose and Mission

Phnom Tamao was founded with the goal of providing a safe environment for animals rescued from illegal wildlife trade, poaching, habitat destruction, and human-wildlife conflicts. Unlike traditional zoos, which focus on displaying animals, Phnom Tamao prioritizes conservation, rehabilitation, and, when possible, reintroduction into the wild.

The center is a haven for animals that have suffered injuries, malnutrition, or abuse, and it provides lifelong care for those that cannot be released due to permanent disabilities or their inability to survive in the wild.

Wildlife at Phnom Tamao

Phnom Tamao is home to over 1,500 animals from more than 100 species, including many that are critically endangered or vulnerable. Some of the most notable species include:

• Asian Elephants: The center houses several rescued elephants, including Chhouk, a young male elephant who lost part of his leg due to a poacher's snare. Chhouk was fitted with a prosthetic leg, making him one of the few elephants in the world to receive such care.
• Sun Bears and Moon Bears: More than 130 bears, mostly rescued from the illegal pet trade and bile farming, live in spacious forested enclosures.
• Indochinese Tigers: Phnom Tamao is one of the few places in Cambodia where tigers are protected, as they are nearly extinct in the wild due to poaching and habitat loss.
• Leopards and Clouded Leopards: These rare big cats are among the center’s most elusive residents.
• Pileated Gibbons and Other Primates: Gibbons, macaques, and langurs, many of which were rescued from the pet trade, live in large enclosures where they can swing and climb freely.
• Siamese Crocodiles: This critically endangered species has been bred at the center as part of a reintroduction program.
• Exotic Birds and Reptiles: Hornbills, parrots, turtles, and pythons are also part of the diverse wildlife cared for at Phnom Tamao.

Rehabilitation and Release Programs

Many animals rescued by Phnom Tamao are rehabilitated with the goal of returning them to the wild. Wildlife Alliance and other conservation groups have successfully reintroduced numerous species back into protected areas, such as the Cardamom Mountains.

The center also operates a breeding and reintroduction program for critically endangered species like the Siamese crocodile, which was once believed to be extinct in the wild.

Visitor Experience

Phnom Tamao is open to the public, offering an opportunity for visitors to learn about Cambodian wildlife and conservation efforts. Unlike traditional zoos, where animals are often confined in small cages, Phnom Tamao provides large, natural enclosures that allow animals to exhibit natural behaviors.

Visitors can:

• Take guided tours to learn about individual animal stories and conservation efforts.
• Participate in interactive experiences, such as feeding elephants or watching sun bears play.
• Walk along shaded forest trails and observe animals in their naturalistic habitats.

For a more immersive experience, Wildlife Alliance offers behind-the-scenes tours where visitors can assist keepers in feeding and caring for the animals.

Conservation Challenges and Future Goals

Despite its success, Phnom Tamao faces ongoing challenges, including illegal poaching, deforestation, and limited funding. Conservationists continue to work on expanding protected areas, educating local communities about wildlife conservation, and improving rescue and rehabilitation programs.

In recent years, concerns have been raised about potential land development near the sanctuary, which could threaten the animals’ safety. Conservation groups and the Cambodian government are working to ensure that Phnom Tamao remains a safe haven for wildlife.

Conclusion

Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center is a vital institution in Cambodia’s fight against wildlife trafficking and habitat destruction. By rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for thousands of animals, it plays a crucial role in conservation efforts. The center also provides an educational experience for visitors, raising awareness about Cambodia’s rich biodiversity and the importance of protecting endangered species.