Community Crocodile Wardens in Cambodia:

Transcription

1 Community Crocodile Wardens in Cambodia: Progress and Potential Boyd K. Simpson, Sorn Piseth, Hor Leng, Chhun Sopheak and Jenny C. Daltry 2006 Forestry Administration and Fauna & Flora International (Cambodia) in association with Disney Wildlife Conservation Fund, Mekong Wetlands Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Use Programme and DEFRA Flagship Species Fund

2 Community Crocodile Wardens in Cambodia: Progress and Potential Boyd K. Simpson 1, Sorn Piseth 2, Hor Leng 2, Chhun Sopheak 2 and Jenny C. Daltry 3 1 Fauna & Flora International Cambodia Programme. PO Box 1380, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. boydsimpson@everyday.com.kh 2 Forestry Administration, #40 Monivong Blvd, Phnom Penh, Cambodia. wpo@forum.org.kh 3 Fauna & Flora International, Great Eastern House, Tenison Rd, Cambridge, CB1 2TT, UK. jenny.daltry@fauna-flora.org December 2006 Above: O Som Community Crocodile Wardens carrying marker posts to the Veal Veng Marsh Crocodile Sanctuary (Hor Leng, Forestry Administration). Cover photo: Warden Min Pbang counting the number of fertile eggs in a Siamese crocodile nest in Veal Veng Marsh (Boyd Simpson, Fauna & Flora International). i

3 Contents Executive Summary... 1 Introduction... 2 The Siamese Crocodile... 2 Site-Specific Threats... 2 The Cardamom Mountains... 2 Traditional Communities in the Cardamom Mountains... 3 The Community Warden Scheme... 3 Methods... 5 Identifying Priority Crocodile Sites... 5 Community Crocodile Wardens... 6 Crocodile Warden Tasks... 7 Patrol Areas and Reporting... 7 Results... 8 Crocodile Warden Patrols... 8 Crocodiles Seen... 8 Crocodile Signs... 9 Identified Threats and Warden Response...10 Visitors and Tourists Community Liaison Community crocodile sanctuary regulations Awareness materials Community information and perception Discussion Warden Performance and Achievements Challenges and Constraints Local Benefits of Wardens Chhay Reap Village: Another Potential Site for Community Wardens? Description of site Appraisal methods and findings Future prospects References ii

4 Executive Summary The Siamese crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) is one of the rarest crocodilians in the world, with only a few hundred adults left in the wild. Although protected by law in Cambodia, their numbers continue to dwindle due to a host of factors, including the collection of live crocodiles to stock farms, accidental drowning in fishing nets, and the destruction of wetlands. The protection of wild crocodiles by government rangers and officials has improved in recent years yet remains inadequate due to the fact that the remaining crocodiles are widely scattered across vast and difficult terrain. Only two or three hundred adults remain, most of which are in the Cardamom Mountains, in Southwest Cambodia. To strengthen the protection of crocodiles, the Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme (a joint initiative of Fauna & Flora International and the Forestry Administration) has therefore begun working with local communities in the Cardamom Mountains. Two communes have now established crocodile sanctuaries and developed by-laws to protect the crocodiles and their habitats, and three communes have established community warden patrols. The performance and progress of these wardens are the main focus of this report. Fourteen wardens have been recruited and trained by Programme staff, comprising ten from O Som Commune, and four from Chum Noap and Thma Dom Pov communes in the Areng valley. The O Som and Areng areas have important breeding colonies of Siamese crocodiles in close proximity to villages, and many of the local indigenous people have a traditional respect for them. The new wardens were tasked with (1) raising awareness of the crocodiles and the local regulations to protect them, (2) gathering information about the crocodiles, threats and local attitudes, and (3) reporting serious illegal activities to the government authorities. Normally working in pairs, the wardens patrolled six priority sites up to four times a month, and presented their findings every month using simple, standardized report forms. They received regular visits from project staff throughout the year to guide them in their duties and discuss any problems encountered. The wardens monthly reports for 2006 provide information on the number of crocodiles and sign seen, and could form the basis of a long term monitoring programme. No poaching incidents were recorded in 2006, but the wardens reported more than 42 visitors to the two sites from as far as Phnom Penh, most of whom said that they had come to see the crocodiles. The wardens also recorded a number of local developments and concerns within their areas, and, in several cases, successfully enabled local authorities to halt them (e.g., the closure of illegal mreah prew processing factories that were discovered by wardens in O Som commune). Feedback from their local communities showed that they had a strong awareness and appreciation of the wardens and their work. The wardening scheme thus appears to be performing a meaningful role in the conservation of crocodiles and their habitats, and should be continued and expanded to more communities. Discussions were begun with Chay Reap village, Dong Peng commune, with a view to recruiting and training wardens here: this village has already demonstrated a strong will to protect its local crocodiles and other wetland wildlife. Some important lessons were learned in 2006, which need to be borne in mind in the future development of the wardening scheme. In particular, the wardens must be able to count on the support of police, rangers or other enforcement officers, especially where they are vulnerable to intimidation by more powerful individuals or groups involved in illegal activities. It may also be desirable to recruit full-time wardens, rather than part-time ones, because the latter have conflicting demands on their time, especially during the rice farming season. 1

5 Introduction The Siamese Crocodile The Siamese crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) is one of the rarest animals in the world. It is facing extinction in the wild and has been listed as critically endangered by the World Conservation Union (IUCN 2006). Once found throughout much of Southeast Asia, the global distribution and abundance of the species have shrunk to a fraction of their former size. Only Cambodia, Laos and possibly Indonesia have reported breeding groups in recent years (Bezuijen et al. 2005, Kurniati et al. 2005, Simpson and Han 2004). The world s largest remaining populations of Siamese crocodiles are reported to reside in Cambodia, with an estimated 200 adults. Within Cambodia, the Cardamom Mountains of the Southwest have been clearly identified as the stronghold (Daltry et al. 2003, Simpson et al. 2006). Siamese crocodile populations have been, and continue to be, affected by numerous pressures. The most significant threats facing Cambodia s crocodiles today are the collection of live animals to stock crocodile farms, habitat destruction or alteration, and the accidental killing of crocodiles in various types of fishing equipment (Simpson et al. 2006). Site-Specific Threats Threats to crocodiles vary from site to site, but the most commonly detected problems in our project pilot sites include: Poaching or hunting of crocodiles to sell to traders or crocodile farms. Catching methods include snares, turtle lines, fishing nets, hooks, hand capture, night-time noosing Habitat destruction - burning of riparian forest (e.g., to provide easy access for walking). - cutting down trees for farming and mreah proh oil extraction. - modifying low lying areas for rice growing. - introducing herds of buffalos, which destroy banks, nesting areas, degrade water quality and break floating grass mats. - pumping or bailing out of small ponds for fishing purposes. - pollution caused by illegal yellow vine (Coscinium) processing factories. - large-scale land clearing for commercial activities. - hydro-electric power development. Drowning or killing of crocodiles in fishing gear, using nets, hooks and illegal fishing methods (electro-fishing and fishing with explosive and poisons) The Cardamom Mountains The Cardamom Mountains cover an area of nearly two million hectares, and are rated by the FAO as one of the most important sites for biodiversity conservation in Asia. The tropical climate, with up to 2

6 5,000mm of rain annually, as well as a complex topography (ranging from sea level to 1,771m) have given rise to numerous watersheds and a wide variety of habitat types. Siamese crocodiles can be found in numerous rivers and wetlands, to an altitude of 600m, but they are not evenly distributed throughout the mountains (Daltry et al. 2003). Breeding populations are restricted to a handful of sites, particularly around O Som commune (Pursat province) and the Areng valley (Koh Kong province) (Simpson and Han. 2004). Under various Cambodian laws (Fisheries Law, Forestry Law, Environmental Law), crocodiles are fully protected from exploitation and destruction,. Furthermore, 25% of Cambodia (including over one million hectares of the Cardamom Mountains) is now under protection, where stricter regulations apply to natural habitats. The effective protection of the key breeding sites in particular, and Siamese crocodiles in general is therefore recognied by law, but has been hampered by the rugged mountain terrain, the scarcity of enforcement rangers in such a large area, and general public disregard for national laws regarding wildlife and habitats. Traditional Communities in the Cardamom Mountains The indigenous people of the Cardamom Mountain area, the Highland Khmer, are a mixture of ethnic minorities that still live in this remote region of the country. Although now integrated into mainstream Khmer society, these ethnic groups still hold on to traditional beliefs relating to crocodiles, spirits and the environment. The Por minority in particular see the crocodile as a sacred animal. There is a general taboo against harming crocodiles, as doing so can bring bad luck to the person responsible and even their entire village. Often before fishing in a lake or area where crocodiles are known to live, for example, the people will first pray to the forest or crocodile spirit, so that any crocodiles will keep away from their fishing nets and not be harmed. The Community Warden Scheme Addressing the threats to crocodiles through conventional protection by government enforcement agencies is crucial, but has proved inadequate by itself, especially in remote and isolated areas where there are too few rangers to give round-the-clock protection, and/or where the threats to the crocodiles are not technically illegal (e.g., the conversion of wetlands to rice paddy and heavy grazing of buffalo near nesting sites would normally be permitted). To promote the conservation of crocodiles, and protect the globally-significant crocodile sites, the assistance and cooperation of local communities is needed. Following a series of studies and consultations, the Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme (CCCP) team surmised that some of the indigenous communities, especially those who believe that harming crocodiles is wrong, could play a useful role in augmenting the protection given by government rangers to conserve Siamese crocodile in selected sites. The CCCP therefore launched a community project to encourage and enable local communities to establish crocodile sanctuaries and enlist community wardens. The main objectives of the community warden scheme in 2005 and 2006 can be summarized as follows: 1. To establish, train and deploy community-based crocodile wardens in two of the largest known Siamese crocodile sites in Cambodia. 3

7 2. To record the achievements and problems encountered by the community wardens, and recommend how to improve their effectiveness. 3. To assess the potential for further community-based crocodile wardens at Chhay Reap village, Dong Peng commune, another significant crocodile site in Southwest Cambodia. 4

8 Methods Identifying Priority Crocodile Sites Crocodile sites were selected after extensive survey work over several years had identified the largest known Siamese crocodile populations in Cambodia. These occupy the area around O Som commune in Pursat Province, and the Areng valley in Koh Kong Province (see Daltry et al. 2003, Simpson et al. 2006). Both sites are remote, being deep within the Cardamom Mountains and one or two day s journey from the nearest towns (Figure 1). During the wetter months, they can become isolated by rising river levels, making access difficult. Importantly, both wetland areas contain breeding groups of crocodiles, with a number of village communities living in close proximity to the breeding sites. The communities of O Som Commune and the villages along the Areng valley exhibit a strong Por ethnic influence, and have lived in both areas for generations (see Daltry et al for details regarding O Som). Their inherent respect for crocodiles provides a solid base on which to recruit wardens. Wardens were selected after consultation with the village and commune chiefs, and the Natural Resource Management Committees in both areas. The O Som crocodile site: Crocodiles were first formally discovered near O Som commune in 2000 (Daltry and Chheang 2000). This site includes Veal Veng Marsh and the Koi and Krau Rivers nearby. These wetlands are situated at 560m above sea level, about 100km upstream from the Gulf of Thailand, and surrounded by evergreen forest. O Som commune was the first community in Cambodia to create a crocodile sanctuary, which covers 230 ha in Veal Veng Marsh, in addition to developing their own by-laws to protect crocodiles and their habitats throughout commune lands. The Areng River crocodile site: Situated approximately 100km upstream from the river mouth, the Areng River site is encompassed by evergreen forest in a wide low lying sandy valley, up to 200m above sea level. The water flows slowly throughout the dry season with a typical depth of less than 2m, but reaching to 7m in some areas. The river is typically 30-40m wide at this point, yet overflows its banks during the peak of the wet season rains. Widespread flooding occurs during this time, inundating the numerous riverside oxbow lakes. Chum Noap commune, the nearest community to the crocodile site, has also established a crocodile sanctuary and developed community rules to protect crocodiles and their river. 5

9 O'Som Site Pursat Province Areng Site Koh Kong Province Chhay Reap Site Elevation (m) Sea # N Kilometers Figure 1. Community crocodile warden sites in the Cardamom Mountains range, Cambodia Community Crocodile Wardens For the O Som site, 10 wardens were selected in 2005 to patrol four specific areas within the commune, including the community s crocodile sanctuary in Veal Veng Marsh. At the time of writing, the Areng site has four wardens who patrol two areas within the Areng River crocodile sanctuary. 6

10 Patrols are carried out by teams of two wardens, except in the Areng River, where one warden patrolled by himself until a fourth was recruited in December Each warden works on a part-time basis and receives at least $10 per month. Fees were negotiated through elected commune committees. The community wardens received their first training classes in April 2005 (O Som site) and January 2006 (Areng Site) to undertake a number of tasks to promote crocodile conservation within their respective communities and crocodile sites. Training covered the use of global positioning systems (GPS), map reading, documenting potential threats to crocodiles, and completing Patrol Forms. Their patrols were not designed to survey for crocodiles, but rather to maintain a high profile presence within the community and identify threats to crocodiles or habitats. The wardens were visited regularly (usually monthly) by project staff from the Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme to discuss their progress and address any problems. Crocodile Warden Tasks Both the O Som and Areng residents have, over the past few years, undertaken Participatory Land Use Planning (PLUP) to zone and manage their commune land. As part of these planning processes, crocodile sanctuaries have been created, which are subject to special community management regulations. Community wardens are required to report on and manage these crocodile sanctuaries, as well as a wider community role of reporting general activities within their communities. Wardens are required to perform a number of tasks within their patrol areas, including: Reporting on the threats to crocodiles or their habitat. Reporting on any significant developments within their local area, such as roads, hydroelectric dams, plantations, forest clearing, logging, mining, illegal activities, etc. Upholding community regulations within the two crocodile sanctuaries Veal Veng Marsh and Areng River [Veal Veng Marsh wardens are also required maintain the crocodile sanctuary boundary by ensuring marker posts are always visible]. Liaising with local conservation rangers to uphold local or national regulations or laws. Reporting on crocodiles or their tracks or dung seen during patrols. Gathering information on crocodile stories from community members. Obtaining information on community concerns and problems regarding crocodiles. Disseminating crocodile awareness materials within their commune or village (e.g., t-shirts, posters, commune crocodile sanctuary regulations or crocodile signboards) Community wardens do not have the power to make arrests, but can report violations to the commune chiefs, police, military police and/or government rangers in their commune or district. The rangers have the power to enforce local regulations and national laws. Patrol Areas and Reporting Wardens are required to undertake patrols of designated areas between two and four times per month, although in one area Anlong L Ang, on the Koi river near O Som commune patrolling is conducted once every two months due to its isolated nature and the large distance involved (Table 1). Reporting of patrol and community information is carried out once a month for each patrol area by completing standardised Khmer language Patrol Forms (see appendix I for an English language 7

11 version). The standard form allows all information to be reported in a consistent fashion, and helps the wardens to report all of the information required. They are designed to keep writing to a minimum because some of the wardens find writing difficult. Table 1. Community crocodile wardens and patrol areas Site Name O Som Patrol Area Name Veal Veng Marsh Home village Kien Chung Roak No. of wardens Frequency of patrolling Notes on patrol area 4 4x/mth Includes Cambodia s first crocodile sanctuary, 230ha O Som Krau River O Som 2 2x/mth Includes 9 km of river O Som Koi River Kandal 2 2x/mth Includes 9 km of river O Som Anlong Chay Luk 2 1x/2 mths More than 25km from village L Ang Areng Ambot Toit Chum Noap 2 4x/mth Includes river and Cambodia s second crocodile sanctuary Areng Ambot Thom Prek Svay 1-2* 4x/mth Includes river and Cambodia s second crocodile sanctuary * Only one warden until a second was recruited in December Results Crocodile Warden Patrols Throughout 2006, community crocodile wardens undertook patrols at the two most significant Siamese crocodile sites in Cambodia: around O Som and the Areng valley. These sites encompass six villages in three communes, within the provinces of Koh Kong and Pursat. O Som Site: O Som Commune, Pursat Province (see Figure 1). This site includes the Ta Jiruk (Veal Veng Marsh) crocodile sanctuary and an additional three areas on the surrounding rivers. Ten wardens are employed to patrol these four areas. Areng Site: Thma Dom Pov and Chum Noap communes, Koh Kong Province (see Figure 1.). This site includes reaches of the upper Areng River, including the Areng River crocodile sanctuary and surrounding oxbow lakes. Four wardens are employed to patrol two areas within this site. Crocodiles Seen Crocodiles were seen during patrols in a number of the areas. Wardens in some areas, such as the Veal Veng Marsh and the Areng River site, recorded crocodile sightings during most months. The total number of different individuals seen during each month is difficult to determine because the same crocodile may be observed multiple times, as each patrol month consists of up to four separate patrols for each of the six areas. The figures in Table 2 should therefore be viewed as a rough indication of general crocodile presence or visibility, rather than as measure of population size. 8

12 Table 2. Crocodile size classes observed in each month in different patrol areas. Large crocodile = ***; Juvenile crocodile = **; Small crocodile = * Areas Month O Som - Veal Veng *** *** Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep *** * 0 * - - *** ** O Som Krau *** 0 O Som Koi ** - 0 O Som - L Ang - - * ** - ** Areng - Toit Areng Thom *** * *** ** * ** * *** *** ** * *** ** ** *** ** *** ** *** ** *** *** 3x *** ** *** ** Over time, this method could be the basis of a simple monitoring programme to detect significant changes in crocodile numbers. There is however, likely to be some seasonal variation in crocodile distribution and visibility, as suggested in the preceding table. Crocodile Signs Crocodile signs were identified mostly during the dry season (January to April), with different signs being more easily recognised in different areas due to the substrate type (Table 2). Table 3. Crocodile signs observed in each month in different patrol areas from January to September Month Places O Som - Veal Veng Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep 0 2 tracks 1 dung 0 1 dung 1 track O Som - Krau dung 0 O Som - Koi O Som - L Ang Areng - Toit Areng - Thom 7 tracks 2 tracks 10 tracks 15 tracks 1 track 1 dung 10 tracks 1 track 1 track dung 3 tracks 1 track 2 tracks 5 tracks 5 tracks 9

13 Identified Threats and Warden Response A number of threats to crocodiles or their habitats were identified during 2006 patrols. Some of these were minor infractions of commune regulations, such as buffalos walking through the crocodile sanctuary, while other problems were criminal activities that may seriously impact upon the waterways and crocodiles. The response to each depended on its severity (Table 4). Table 4. Threats identified and responses by community crocodile wardens from January to September, Patrol Area Threat Response O Som Veal Veng (crocodile sanctuary) O Som Krau O Som Koi O Som L Ang Areng Toit Chamka (field) and hut built. Buffalos. Net fishing. Electro-fishing. None Mreah proh factories nearby Hydro-electric dam feasibility assessment Mreah proh factories nearby Electrofishing/water pump None Inform CCPF rangers; hut removed, cultivation stopped. Chased buffalos from sanctuary. Informed fishermen that fishing with nets is prohibited in sanctuary. Informed fishermen that electro-fishing is prohibited Inform CCPF and PSWS rangers, enforcement patrols undertaken, equipment destroyed, violators detained. Continue to monitor. Inform CCPF and PSWS rangers: enforcement patrols undertaken, equipment destroyed, violators detained Areng Thom Small fire seen None Of particular concern to crocodiles, their habitats, and the community of O Som, is an ongoing assessment of this area for the construction of a hydro-power dam and reservoir. Crocodile wardens from O Som commune reported that hydrological, soil, and topographical studies were undertaken by a Chinese company during The feasibility study was said to assess suitable locations for the construction of a hydro-power reservoir. Permission for site exploration in the area has been granted by the Government, but details remain unclear. Wardens are continuing to seek updates from the hydro-dam assessment team. Destruction of forest habitat, riparian habitat and pollution of the waterways by illegal mreah proh factories in the O Som area was also a big concern in Another problem associated with such illegal activities was that the community wardens were often afraid to patrol in the affected areas due to the presence of often armed groups. More than a dozen factories were raided by enforcement agencies and closed down in response to reports provided by the O Som community crocodile wardens. 10

14 Visitors and Tourists Wardens reported that 11 groups of outsiders, totalling more than 42 people, visited both sites to see the crocodiles or to conduct studies. Most visits were conducted in the drier months (January to April) when roads and bridges were still in good order and transport was easier to obtain. Wardens in the Areng site also reported that the residents of Chum Noap commune conducted their annual fishing ceremonies in two lakes during the months of February and March, with group sizes averaging nearly 50 people (Table 5). Table 5. Visitors to patrol sites at O Som and Areng. Area Date Group size Origin Purpose O Som Veal Veng marsh 15 January 5 Krapeu Pi, Pursat Looking Province February 3 Phnom Penh, foreigners Photographing crocodiles and cardamoms 22 February 2 Krapeu Pi, Pursat Looking Province March 2 Pursat province Looking April 3 Phnom Penh Students studying turtles May 1 Pramaoy, Pursat Looking June Group?? To see crocodiles and learn about them in Veal Veng August 3 O Som Commune police and students September 25 Veal Veng District Gather information on O Som crocodiles Areng site 20 January 4? 1 foreigner, 3 khmer 21 February 51 Chum Noap Traditional fishing ceremony 8 March 57 Chum Noap Traditional fishing ceremony 11 March 35 Chum Noap Traditional fishing ceremony 21 March 9 Thma Bang General visit March 10 Phnom Penh General visit Community Liaison Wardens from all areas held informal discussions regarding crocodiles and crocodile-related activities with residents from their respective villages. They informed and reminded local residents of their 11

15 community regulations, canvassed residents regarding recent crocodile information, and distributed awareness materials throughout their communities. Community crocodile sanctuary regulations Local residents were reminded of community regulations that pertain to the crocodile sanctuaries at O Som and Areng, which place some restrictions on activities within the sanctuaries, such as fishing with nets and hooks. The wardens encouraged community members to follow these regulations, which were formed through participatory process and had been agreed by the members. In O Som, 12 small information signs were placed throughout the commune in prominent buildings and official offices such as schools, police station, guesthouses, the houses of commune and village chiefs, and conservation offices. These signs depicted prohibited and acceptable activities within the crocodile sanctuary in Veal Veng Marsh (the Ta Jaroek Crocodile Sanctuary). Two larger signs were also erected by wardens at the crocodile sanctuary to inform residents of regulations within the crocodile sanctuary. Awareness materials Wardens distributed t-shirts in Thma Dom Pov, Chum Noap and Pra Lay communes on the Areng River to raise awareness of the crocodiles in the river and promote a sense of pride amongst community members. They depict an Angkorian bas-relief crocodile, with the words (in Khmer language): Together we can protect the crocodile Arak Neak Ta, the crocodile spirit of the area, and also the words Chum Noap commune, Thma Bang district. Community information and perception Informal interviews were carried out by wardens with local residents to gather information on recent crocodile sightings, problems and community perceptions. O Som: The wardens reported that most people knew about the regulations of the crocodile sanctuary in Veal Veng, and there were no reports of crocodiles breaking people s fishing nets ( because the people no longer fish in areas where many crocodiles live ) in the sanctuary. Some residents reported that the number of crocodiles at Anlong L Ang had increased, but there were concerns that illegal mreah proh factories would have a negative affect on the crocodiles and the waterways in the area. Generally, the people were happy to have crocodiles in their commune and would keep them for future generations. Areng: Information collected by the wardens from fishermen during patrols indicated that crocodiles are seen regularly during fishing trips on the Areng River. Both adult and juvenile crocodiles were reported from various deeper parts of the Areng River and lakes. Fishermen only ever reported seeing solitary crocodiles at a particular location, however, during their fishing trips. A resident of the upper Areng River, from Chamna village, reported that a dog had been eaten by a crocodile while crossing the river in September Nevertheless, residents generally appeared to be pleased that crocodiles remain in the river. 12

16 Figure 2. Village elder of O Som commune with a sign for the Veal Veng crocodile sanctuary. Crocodile wardens educate villagers about rules of the crocodile sanctuary. Figure 3. Chum Noap villagers with new crocodile t-shirts. T-shirts were distributed by the Areng crocodile wardens. Figure 4. Illegal mreah proh distilling factories found by crocodile wardens in O Som crocodile site. Numerous factories were closed down by enforcement rangers in 2006, using information gathered by the wardens. Figure 5. Chum Noap villagers take part in an annual fishing event in Areng River crocodile site. This fishing event was monitored by the crocodile wardens. 13

17 Discussion Warden Performance and Achievements Generally, wardens undertook their required tasks well, and have become well known throughout their communities. An increase in crocodile awareness occurred within each community, with community members willing to relate crocodile stories or sightings to wardens. The distribution of crocodile t- shirts, posters and discussions of the community regulations has resulted in a general increase in crocodile knowledge and awareness in these villages. The community crocodile wardens in the O Som and Areng River crocodile sites provided a wealth of information through their monthly reports. They relate not only to crocodile or habitats, but also other developments within their areas. The warden reports kept relevant authorities abreast of local developments or problems within the community, allowing illegal activities to be halted before they become a major concern. The illegal activities included mreah proh factories (forest-based oil-extracting facilities) in the forests around O Som, which could have a serious and lasting negative affect on riverine habitats and crocodiles, by causing excessive forest damage and polluting the waterways. Factory operators fell the mreah proh trees and, after cutting other trees for fuel, distil the wood chips over large fires to produce a valuable oil that is exported to Vietnam (from where it is re-exported to other countries for the production of perfume or illegal drugs). Although factory operators commonly intimidate local residents, the crocodile wardens were still able to reports these illegal activities to enforcement agencies, which closed down the operations. The crocodile wardens are not enforcement rangers, which may allow them to report illegal activities without fear of repercussion from factory operators. Even though neither of these two pilot sites - O Som and Areng - are advertised as tourist areas, many people in surrounding areas know that crocodiles live here, and sometime come to see them or at least take boat rides along the river. Wardens have recorded the numbers of visitors coming to these areas, and found that people come from as far as Phnom Penh. The recent increase in visitor numbers indicates that it may now be both necessary and profitable to manage tourists for the benefit of the crocodiles and community. Options for managing tourists in O Som and Areng should be discussed with the local communities. Numerous other wildlife were also reported in warden reports, with more specific information obtained for such rarities as white-winged wood ducks, silvered langurs and otters. Challenges and Constraints With as many as 14 wardens patrolling six key areas of two crocodile sites throughout the year, there were bound to be some areas of patrolling or reporting that could be improved upon. The Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme team observed that wardens were sometimes reluctant to report small problems or community regulation infractions caused by friends or family. It could also be embarrassing for a junior warden to advise or confront an elder who disobeys the community regulations. Intimidation from illegal factory operators also hampered patrols in the 14

18 Anlong L Ang area of the O Som site. Police or ranger enforcement support is clearly needed in these situations. At the height of the wet season, flooded rivers and marshes can make patrolling or access to patrol areas difficult. In the case of the Veal Veng patrol area (O Som site), the marsh floods a very large area making patrolling impossible. At such times, however, wardens can focus on their community awareness tasks instead of patrolling. Community wardens are often poorly educated and undertake the patrolling in a part-time capacity. There are sometimes family, farming or other commitments which can impede patrolling duties. During the rice-growing season, some community wardens found it difficult to find enough time to patrol, especially where the patrol areas were far from their houses. Because the wardens come from poor rural communities, their part-time warden commitments cannot take precedence over growing rice and supporting their families. During such busy times of the year, wardens also need to coordinate with their warden partners, who are also heavily occupied with farming, thus making timely patrols sometimes impossible. These factors must be accepted as constraints until and unless full-time wardens are to be employed. All wardens will benefit from close and continued support from donor or supporting agencies, with regular reporting and feedback given during village meeting. Local Benefits of Wardens Community crocodile wardens can bring a number of direct and indirect benefits to their community, crocodiles and habitat. The financial support provided to community members helps their daily living expenses, while the commune as a whole also receives some funding through its role in coordinating warden patrols. The financial support is not excessive, however, to ensure this programme has greater sustainability. The general status of crocodiles in an area can be kept under surveillance through patrolling, and specific threats identified. By keeping a constant presence on the ground in the most vulnerable crocodile sites, the management of the area can be adapted to the prevailing circumstances, thus providing better protection for crocodiles and their environment. In turn, by preserving a healthy habitat around the community, other natural resources such as fish, non-timber forest products and water can also be maintained for the benefit of all. The efforts to combat mreah proh factories near O Som, for example, are vital for preserving the wild cardamom spices that the villagers harvest every year to sell. The potential for tourists to provide an additional income for these communities is apparent in both sites. Although such income may be modest initially, it will have the added benefit of providing extra incentive for community members to protect wildlife and habitats. Any tourist management scheme will need to be carefully considered and developed to ensure that any financial rewards benefit the community as a whole, rather than specific individuals. Chhay Reap Village: Another Potential Site for Community Wardens? Description of site Chhay Reap village is in Southwest Cambodia, on the southern section of the Cardamom Mountains (Figure 1). The small village is approximately 100km upstream on the Sre Ambel river, and can be 15

19 accessed only by a rough track in the dry season or by boat during the wet season: a series of shallow rock bars prohibits year-round access by boat. Travel from national road #48 to Chhay Reap takes a full day in the wet season or half a day by motorbike in the dry season. This village is administered by Dong Peng commune, Sre Ambel district, Koh Kong Province. After Pol Pot s régime was ousted from Phnom Penh in 1979, this became a Khmer Rouge stronghold which saw considerable fighting between KR and government troops. After the integration of the KR troops into the government military during , many people returned or relocated to this area. This area is quite isolated and was integrated into the Samling logging concession in 1994, which is administered by Forestry Administration. Logging was halted in The Sre Ambel River is a low lying river at less than 200m above sea level, with its headwaters in the Elephant Mountain range. Numerous oxbow lakes are associated with this clear flowing river. The Sre Ambel River and areas surrounding Chhay Reap village were identified as significant site for Siamese crocodiles in 2003 (Daltry et al. 2003), with breeding reported from a number of areas. A nest was examined in riverside oxbow lake in 2004 (Simpson and Han 2004), but reports were obtained of crocodiles being captured and taken from this area in later years (Jelden et al. 2005, Simpson et al. 2006). The status and distribution of the Siamese crocodile in the Sre Ambel River in 2006 remains unclear, although the previous reports indicate that this is still an important and very vulnerable site. Appraisal methods and findings A fieldtrip to Chhay Reap village and surrounding areas was undertaken from 6-12 August 2006, during the wet season. Access to the village was by boat and was carried out by Forestry Administration staff from the Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme. Specific objects of the trip were to: 1. Gain information on the current and historical Siamese crocodile distribution. 2. Identify threats to wetland species including crocodiles. 3. Ascertain local perceptions towards crocodiles 4. Get the community s view on establishing community wardens in the area A rapid appraisal of the forest, rivers and local activities was also carried out during the trip (see Hor and Sopheak 2006 for a more detailed report). Discussions were held with community members, elders, village chiefs, government officials and NGO workers to determine whether the site was suitable, and if they would be receptive to the idea of establishing community wardens. Twenty informal interviews were carried out to obtain information regarding crocodiles, including their current and historic status in the area and any threats they may face. Long-term residents of Chhay Reap village and the surrounding areas stated that crocodiles have been a part of the wetlands for as long as they could remember, and had probably been present since ancient times. They said that before the Pol Pot régime. the area had many crocodiles, but from there was considerable crocodile hunting in the area and that numbers had decreased. More recently, crocodiles have been seen by local residents in a number of areas along the Sre Ambel River, wetlands and oxbow lakes. Most of the areas from which crocodiles have been reported are the deeper areas of the river, with small or baby crocodiles being reported from as recently as

20 A number of threats to crocodiles and other wetland species were identified. They include the active hunting of specific species and incidental catches during other activities. It is apparent that crocodiles are still being caught and traded from the area, but the incidence now seems low. Accounts of recent captures of wetland species include: During 2005, baby crocodiles were caught on turtle hooks set in the water near Chhay Reap village, and the young crocodiles were then sold on to middlemen for 50,000 Riel (US$ 12.50) each. During June 2006, fishermen from another province used illegal gillnets to catch baby dragonfish (Scleropages formosus an endangered species) for sale. Fishermen from another province used chemical poisons to catch fish to sell in markets. Recently a 40-50kg crocodile was caught for trade, but later released out of fear of being caught by law enforcement agencies. Despite the last comment, however, the Chhay Reap area is very remote and without a base for wildlife enforcement agencies, so the enforcement of natural resources is poorly implemented. Village-level protection groups have already been established by some of the elders of the area to protect some wetland species, such as turtles, crocodiles and dragonfish, and specific wetland areas. The success of these groups in protecting these areas and species seems to be mixed, however, being less successful against powerful outside influences such as dragonfish catchers, who were operating in the area in June Local fishermen who fished using illegal methods in 2006, however, were caught and called for good advice by the village elders. Patrols from NGO-supported government rangers pass through the area on patrol, and have had some success in reducing wildlife trade in protected species, but provide little protection to the crocodiles habitats. Future prospects The Chhay Reap area has been part of a logging concession in the past, and has thus undergone a degree of logging, with the removal of luxury and commercial tree species. The conversion of land for agriculture has also had some affect on the forest cover in the area, although residents of Chhay Reap still report that the area contains an abundance of wildlife including large mammals, birds and reptiles (Hor and Sopheak 2006). The rich and diverse wildlife in this area was also verified by Daltry & Traeholt (2003). Crocodiles were confirmed in this area in 2003 (Daltry et al. 2003), and despite some crocodile hunting since that time, it seems from local reports that some crocodiles still survive. The nest that was examined in 2004, and the reports of small crocodiles in 2005, suggest that crocodiles may still breed in the Chhay Reap area. They have also been reported from a number of areas, so it must be considered that crocodiles are widespread in the river, albeit at very low densities. Further biological work is needed to verify their current status. Although the Chhay Reap community does not have any resident rangers or police, it is to their credit that they have established community guidelines to restrict fishing in certain areas and protect crocodiles, turtles and fish. These community rules may not be adhered to by all local residents or outsiders, but the intent of the community is well presented. Based on this preliminary appraisal, it appears that the establishment of community wardens in Chhay Reap could enhance the effectiveness of the community s intent to protect its wetland species, while 17

21 helping to secure another key crocodile site in the Cardamom Mountains. The village chief welcomed the proposed support of external aid to promote crocodile conservation within Chhay Reap and the surrounding area. The Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme could support such community wardens while providing education and awareness to the surrounding areas. Given that the local residents of the area still report the presence of crocodiles, and their proven willingness to undertake wetland protection, we believe that it is crucial that this opportunity is taken to enhance and promote crocodile conservation within this community. Such support will not only be beneficial to crocodiles and habitats, but will also directly benefit local wardens by providing additional income. In addition to direct funding, wider support for the community could also be provided in the form of agricultural, educational or other development assistance. References Bezuijen, M.R., Phothitay, C., Hedemark, M., & Chanrya, S Preliminary status review of the Siamese crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis Schneider, 1801) (Reptilia: Crocodylia) in the Lao People s Democratic Republic. Living Aquatic Resources Research Centre (Government of Lao PDR), Wildlife Conservation Society Lao PDR Program & Mekong Wetlands Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Use Programme, Vientiane. Daltry, J.C. and D. Chheang, Reptiles. Pp In Cardamom Mountains Biodiversity Survey 2000 (Eds. J.C. Daltry and F. Momberg). Fauna & Flora International, Cambridge, UK. Daltry, J.C., & Traeholt, C. (Compilers) Biodiversity Assessment of the Southern Cardamoms and Botum-Sakor Peninsula. WildAid: Cambodia Program, and Department of Forestry and Wildlife, Phnom Penh. Daltry, J.C., Chheang D., Em P., Poeung M., Sam H., Sorn P., Tan T. & Simpson, B.K Status of the Siamese Crocodile in the Central Cardamom Mountains, Southwest Cambodia. Cambodian Crocodile Conservation Programme: Fauna & Flora International: Cambodia Programme, and Department of Forestry and Wildlife, Phnom Penh. Daltry, J.C., Chheang D. & Nhek, R A pilot project to integrate crocodile conservation and livelihoods in Cambodia. Pp In: Crocodiles. Proceedings of the 17 th Working Meeting of the IUCN-SSC Crocodile Specialist Group, IUCN, Gland, Switzerland. Hor, L. & C. Sopheak Report on the Establishment of Crocodile Wardens in Chhay Reap Village, Koh Kong Province. Unpublished Report, Fauna & Flora International Cambodia Programme. IUCN IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. ( Accessed June Jelden, D.C., Manolis, C.H., Giam, Thomson, J. & Lopez, A Crocodile Conservation and Management in Cambodia: A Review with Recommendations. Summary report of the IUCN- SSC Crocodile Specialist Group review mission to Cambodia. IUCN-SSC Crocodile Specialist Group. 18

22 Kurniata, H., Widodo, T. and Manolis, C Surveys of Siamese Crocodile (Crocodylus siamensis) Habitat in the Mahakam River, East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI) and Wildlife Management International, Cibinong. Simpson, B.K. & S. Han, Siamese crocodile surveys in Cambodia. Pp In: Crocodiles. Proceedings of the 17 th Working Meeting of the IUCN-SSC Crocodile Specialist Group, IUCN, Gland, Switzerland. Simpson, B.K., Chheang, D. and Han, S The status of the Siamese crocodile in Cambodia. In Press. In: Crocodiles. Proceedings of the 17 th Working Meeting of the IUCN-SSC Crocodile Specialist Group, IUCN, Gland, Switzerland. 19

23 Appendix I. Warden Report Form for Areng Site (English translation). Crocodile Warden Report Form Areng Site - Month : - Report by : - Warden names : - Patrol Dates : I. Threats to Crocodiles and Habitat A. Inside Sanctuary Warden Patrols A.1. Snares: Explain if seen: 1. Type Where.. 3. When 4. How many Whose snare What do you do when you see snare: (1. destroy, 2. report, 3. tell snare owner, 4. confiscate) A.2. Fire in sanctuary: 1. Where Size.3.When Reason A.3. Illegal fishing: 1. Where How many people When..... Type of illegal fishing: (1. nets, 2. hooks, 3. pump, 3. bomb, 4. electric, 5. poison) A.4. Buffalo: 1. Where 2. When Whose. 4. How many... A.5. Building or camping: 1. Where When Who How many people..... A.6. Logging / cutting trees: 1. Where Name of people How many trees cut. 4. When... 20

24 B. Outside Sanctuary B.1. Snares: Explain if seen: 1. Type Where When. 4. How many.. 5. Whose snare What do you do when you see snare (1.destroy, 2. report, 3. tell snare owner, 4. confiscate). B.2. Fire in forest: 1. Where.. 2. Size 3. Reason When... B.3. Illegal fishing: 1.Where.. 2. How many people When... Type of illegal fishing:( 1. pump, 2. bomb, 3.electric, 4.poison) B.4. logging / cutting trees in forest: 1. Where.. 2. Name of people How many trees cut. 4. When. II. Crocodile Information A. Seen during patrol: A.1.Crocodiles: 1.Where (UTM) Date....,3. How many Size (1. Adult, 2. Juvenile, 3. Baby) A.2. Dung: 1. Where (UTM) How many dung (do not collect).... A.3. Tracks: 1. Where (UTM) How many... A4. Nests: 1. Where (UTM) How many... B. Reports (crocodile information from some-one else): B.1. Sighting or Sign (1. track, 2. dung, 3. slide, 4. nest): 1. Name. 2. Where When..4. Size Reason..... C. Report of crocodile catching or crocodile death: 1.Name. 2.How many people... 3.From where... 4.How many crocs.. 5. Size (1. Adult, 2. medium, 3. small) 1.Catching method used... 2.Catching for what purpose... 3.How many caught 4.What size 5.Released back to river Dead or Alive 21

25 III. Education and Other Information A. Talk to local residents about regulations or awareness material distribution which village did you visit. B. Anyone interested in crocodiles: Yes No Who: tourist, croc catcher, government official, NGO people, police, foreigner, soldier, other 1.When... 2.How many people. 2.Where... C. Any complaints about crocodiles: 1.How many people.. 2.Which village... 3.Why. 4.Did you report to CCP: Yes, No, 5.When. 6.Problem type... D. Development activity in commune, e.g., logging, hydro power, new road, other Explain:... E. Any other wildlife seen during patrol: 1.What animal. 2.Where.. 3.When...4. Sighting or Sign seen IV. Other important information: Explain: