Cambodia’s Wetlands, Covering 30% of the Country, Crucial for Migratory Birds

• 13 May 2024
• Local News
• 1410 Views

Cambodia boasts approximately 30% of its total area as wetlands, providing crucial habitats for migratory birds. This announcement was made by HE Khvay Atiya, spokesperson for the Ministry of Environment, on Migratory Bird Day 2024, celebrated globally in the second week of May.

HE Khvay Atiya highlighted the essential role of insects as the primary food source for migratory birds. He noted that Cambodia has over 5 million hectares of wetlands, making up 30% of the nation’s land area. This extensive wetland ecosystem is vital not only for the environment but also for economic development, social and cultural aspects, and the daily lives of people.

The diverse habitats within Cambodia’s wetlands—including freshwater wetlands, beaches, rivers, lakes, streams, grasslands, swamps, ponds, and marshes—are indispensable for migratory birds to live, forage, spawn, and rest during their long journeys.

To enhance the conservation of these migratory birds, the Ministry of Environment collaborates with various stakeholders at national and sub-national levels. They implement strict measures to prevent, eliminate, and suppress illegal activities in protected areas, adhering to existing laws and regulations. Moreover, promoting reforestation is a key strategy, to increase forest cover to 60% by 2050.

• land development and policy
• Agriculture and Aquaculture Project