WWF says species on alarming decline in east Cambodia

Multiple animal species on Cambodia's Eastern Plains are on a dramatic decline, including large mammals, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) said in a statement on Wednesday.

"Camera traps and other scientific research show a big loss of wild animals over the last years," the statement said.

"The reasons for this alarming development are uncontrolled economic growth, poaching, extraction of goods, free road access and less control of illegal weapon use inside protected areas and a low number of rangers patrolling the protected areas," it said.

The Eastern Plains cover most of Mondulkiri province and parts of its neighbouring provinces.

"We are still facing immense problems to combat biodiversity loss and enhance conservation of wildlife," said Moul Phath, Easter Plains Landscape manager of WWF-Cambodia in Mondulkiri.

"Spatial planning is the key to harmonize development and conservation."

Law enforcement and training of rangers and officials are a key element to the protection of the landscape's value, he said, adding that community members need to patrol together with park rangers, police and WWF to reduce illegal wildlife trade. Enditem