Cambodia

Cambodian Tailorbird © Dion Hobcroft

Peace has well and truly settled on this wonderful, laid-back country, and it is now one of the most exciting new birding destinations in Asia. The expansive forests and untouched wetlands of this small country harbor some of the rarest and most sought-after species of birds and mammals in Asia. Good photographic opportunities.

The Cambodian people are indeed custodians of a very special natural heritage. In recent years a number of hugely exciting discoveries have been made, including a population of the near-mythical Giant Ibis, a new species—the Mekong Wagtail, and a breeding population of the rapidly declining eastern race of Sarus Crane. Other highly threatened species have been found in the northern plains of Cambodia, including a healthy breeding population of White-shouldered Ibis in the northern province of Preah Vihear along with White-rumped Falcon and several other birds such as Spotted Wood-Owl and the gorgeous Black-headed Woodpecker. On the wetlands around Tonle Sap Lake and at ATT, the biggest breeding colonies of waterbirds in Southeast Asia represent one of the finest birding spectacles in the entire region. Breeding populations of Greater Adjutant (which is declining alarmingly elsewhere), the still relatively common Lesser Adjutant, Milky Stork, Spot-billed Pelican, and many others can be observed nesting at Prek Toal. The most extensive grasslands remaining in Southeast Asia are where we will look for some more scarce beauties, in particular the splendid Bengal Florican.

In addition, we will encounter a number of other species that are usually considered difficult to see in other countries—Rufous-winged Buzzard, Black-headed Woodpecker, and Comb Duck being just a small sample. The dry dipterocarp woodlands of Cambodia harbor a plethora of hugely attractive birds and other animals. For example, we have a chance to see one of the world’s loveliest primates, the Black-shanked Douc Langur, in the attractive Seima Wildlife Sanctuary. In fact, Seima has proved a happy hunting ground for us, including sightings of Great Hornbill, bugling Green Peafowl, Pale-capped Pigeon, Black-crowned Parrotbill, and the localized White-cheeked Laughingthrush.

As if the birds of Cambodia were not exciting enough, we also have the opportunity to visit some of the greatest surviving architectural monuments of Asia—the temples of the ancient city of Angkor. They represent the heart and soul of Cambodia, harking back to an era of unrivaled influence over the entire region. The Khmer Empire once ruled over south China, Vietnam, Thailand, Burma, and Malaysia. Built at the height of the Khmer civilization from the eighth to the twelfth century, the Angkor complex was erected during a time of extraordinary artistry. This beautiful World Heritage temple complex surrounded by forest composes one of the most enjoyable settings imaginable for any birdwatcher.

Superb hotel and gardens at Siem Reap, near Angkor; excellent, comfortable hotels at most sites, and a simple lodge at Tmatboey with private facilities and solar power; good to excellent food; easy to moderate trail and easy roadside birding, with some midday breaks; warm and dry throughout.

Spotted Wood-Owl © Dion Hobcroft