Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Lomphat, a 5-month-old female elephant weighing 138kg, is beginning her road to recovery with our keepers at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center after a complex and heartfelt rescue effort. Led by the Ministry of Environment, the Forestry Administration, and Wildlife Alliance, this operation highlights the vital collaboration needed to protect Cambodia’s wildlife.

The Rescue Operation

Lomphat was discovered near the headquarters of Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary in a critical state. She suffered a severe wound to her front right leg caused by a snare, a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by human-made hazards. To make matters worse, the young elephant was being chased by a pack of dogs when she was spotted by the Ministry of Environment team.

The team quickly secured Lomphat and sought urgent assistance from the Wildlife Alliance veterinary team, with support from Naturelife Cambodia. Recognizing the severity of her condition and her inability to feed independently, the decision was made to transport her to Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, where she could receive the specialized care she desperately needed.

The journey began at 6:30 PM on December 9, 2024, from Lomphat Wildlife Sanctuary and concluded safely at 4:30 AM on December 10. Despite the challenges, the team’s coordinated efforts ensured Lomphat arrived safely to begin her recovery.

A Growing Crisis: Human-Wildlife Conflict

Lomphat’s story is a stark reminder of the increasing human-elephant conflict in Cambodia. Habitat loss due to deforestation is forcing elephants out of their natural environments, leading them to venture into human settlements in search of food. Crop raids and injuries from hazards like snares have become alarmingly common, placing both humans and wildlife in precarious situations.

This rescue comes shortly after another successful operation involving Chanam, a 2-year-old elephant found separated from her herd in Mondulkiri Province. Her rescue, relocation, and subsequent recovery at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center underscore the ongoing need for conservation efforts and rapid response mechanisms.

The Zero Snares Campaign: Tackling the Root Cause

To address one of the leading causes of wildlife injuries, the Ministry of Environment launched the Zero Snares Campaign in 2023. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the devastating impact of snares on Cambodia’s wildlife and mobilize communities to eliminate their use. By engaging local stakeholders and strengthening enforcement measures, the campaign seeks to create safer habitats for elephants and other endangered species.

Hope for Lomphat

Now under the dedicated care of the team at Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Center, Lomphat has a chance at recovery. Her story serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved when conservation organizations, government agencies, and local communities work together to protect wildlife.

The Ministry of Environment, Forestry Administration, Wildlife Alliance, and their partners remain committed to safeguarding Cambodia’s iconic species. Lomphat’s rescue is a call to action to continue addressing the challenges of deforestation, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict, ensuring a brighter future for elephants and their natural habitats.