AKP Phnom Penh, June 30, 2026 —

The Angkor Centre for Conservation of Biodiversity (ACCB) has equipped four captive-bred white-shouldered Ibises with Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking devices ahead of their scheduled release into the wild in the coming weeks, the centre announced on June 29 evening.

The tracking devices were fitted to the birds' legs in early June. This marks the world's first-ever planned release of captive-bred white-shouldered Ibises into their natural habitat, representing a major milestone for the conservation of the critically endangered species.

The GPS trackers were donated by the Zlín-Lešná Zoo in the Czech Republic, traveling through Poland and the United Kingdom before arriving in Cambodia.

Because this is the first time such tracking devices have been deployed on this specific species, the four ibises are undergoing a minimum four-week trial period inside an acclimation aviary. The trial ensures the devices function as intended without causing discomfort or behavioral issues for the birds.

According to ACCB, the trial has been successful so far, and the birds are fully prepared for their upcoming release.

The white-shouldered Ibis is one of the world's most threatened bird species, with its remaining wild population restricted to a highly limited geographical range, primarily within Cambodia. ACCB noted that this landmark achievement was made possible through the continuous support and collaboration of its global conservation partners.

By K. Rithy Reak