In Search of the Lost Crocodiles
Poaching, habitat loss, and hunting have nearly wiped out the Siamese crocodile. In Cambodia, several programs are now working to protect the last remaining wild populations.
The Siamese crocodile population has plummeted over decades, making it one of the world's rarest reptiles today. In Cambodia, several NGOs have managed to stabilize the species in recent years by creating dedicated sanctuaries. Tourists occasionally venture into these areas to witness these extraordinarily rare creatures.
Once widespread across Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Myanmar, Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia, the Siamese crocodile now exists only in Cambodia. According to WWF, between 100 and 300 individuals of this species remain in the wild worldwide, making it one of the rarest reptiles on earth. The IUCN has classified it as critically endangered. All of these crocodiles live in Cambodia. Protected zones have been established in the Cardamom Mountains and north of Kratié. Local organizations are implementing breeding and conservation programs to prevent the species' complete extinction. The population was nearly decimated by poaching and hunting. The reptile's skin commands extremely high prices, as does its meat. Its habitat has also been severely degraded in recent decades due to local agricultural demands.
Siamese Crocodile Lake
The Osoam Cardamom Community center is one of these protected habitats, located in the Cardamom Mountains, between Koh Kong and the town of Pursat. Here lies the Siamese Crocodile Lake, which is home to between 40 and 60 Siamese crocodiles. Visitors can venture into this lake to observe this exceptionally rare species. Chhun is a guide who welcomes and accompanies those eager to learn more about these animals. According to him, the best season is between December and May, the dry season. The ideal time to visit is at night. "Siamese crocodiles are only active after sunset, at night. That's when you'll have the best chance of seeing them." These crocodiles appear to pose no danger—they do not attack. This lake is a genuine tourism attraction. Travelers camp for days trying to spot the reptiles. "Most foreigners and Cambodians never miss the opportunity to see a Siamese crocodile even once, given how rare they are,
