BBC reported that the efforts of Cambodian conservationists over the past 20 years have paid off. These baby crocodiles belong to a group of crocodiles discovered by locals in May in the Cardamom Mountains. Conservationists said they were born at the end of June, but were not officially announced until July 18.
The identifying characteristic of Siamese crocodiles is that they have clearly visible spines behind their eyes. They can be up to 4m long and weigh up to 150kg.
Siamese crocodiles were once widely distributed throughout Southeast Asia , including Vietnam. Due to overhunting and shrinking habitat, the number of this species has decreased to endangered levels. According to estimates, there are only about 400 individuals left in the world and they are mostly concentrated in Cambodia.
The birth of 60 baby crocodiles is considered by conservationists as a great encouragement for the recovery process of this species because there are not many of them left in the wild.
Mr. Pablo Sinovas - head of the conservation group Fauna & Flora - said the organization worked with local officials in Cardamon ( Cambodia ) to design a captive breeding program before releasing them into the wild.
The program has been implemented since 2012 and has had 192 individuals released into the wild.
Currently, Vietnam is also making great efforts in the process of preserving Siamese crocodiles and also has an artificial hatching program similar to Cambodia. This program is being implemented at Dam Sen Cultural Park (District 5, Ho Chi Minh City) and has recorded many positive signs.
