One of the first nature conservation center in Cambodia

The history of wildlife rescue at the Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) began with the establishment of the center in 2003, an initiative envisioned by the late Cambodian biologist Sam Veasna to address the threats of poaching and illegal wildlife trade in Cambodia.

ACCB became Cambodia's first nature conservation center, housing rescued animals, implementing breeding programs for endangered species, and conducting conservation and education efforts aimed at protecting biodiversity.

The center provides care for animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, aims to rehabilitate and release them back into the wild when possible, and uses captive breeding to establish safe populations of species like the pileated gibbon and the White-shouldered Ibis.

Founding and Mission:

Establishment:

ACCB was founded in 2003 by Allwetterzoo Münster in collaboration with the Zoological Society for the Conservation of Species and Populations (ZGAP) and with support from Dr. Goetz.

Inspiration:

The idea was conceived by the renowned Cambodian biologist Sam Veasna to counter threats from illegal wildlife trade, poaching, and deforestation.

Role:

ACCB functions as a rescue, rehabilitation, breeding, and educational center, focusing on the conservation of Cambodia's wildlife and biodiversity.

Key Activities

Rescue and Rehabilitation:

The center rescues animals from the illegal wildlife trade and provides them with care and rehabilitation, with the goal of returning them to the wild when feasible.

Conservation Breeding:

ACCB runs breeding programs for endangered and critically endangered species, such as the pileated gibbon and the White-shouldered Ibis, to help establish secure populations for potential reintroduction.

Education:

The center conducts environmental education to raise awareness about the threats to wildlife and the importance of conservation, both within the local community and among visitors.

Research:

ACCB also contributes to conservation research and implements strategies aligned with the One Plan Approach to species conservation.

Species Protection

ACCB protects various animals, including mammals like gibbons and langurs, as well as reptiles and birds.

Firsts in Cambodia

The center has achieved significant milestones, such as the first successful breeding of White-shouldered Ibis and Greater Adjutant chicks in Cambodia.

Releases

Efforts have included the soft release of animals, such as Hornbills and Green Peafowl, allowing them to acclimatize to the wild while still receiving supplementary food and monitoring.