AKP Phnom Penh, August 19, 2026 --

Environmental rangers in Takeo province have recorded the first-ever sighting of an endangered Milky Stork in the core zone of the Boeung Prek Lapov Protected Area, local authorities and conservationists reported Wednesday.

The single specimen was discovered on Aug. 18 during a joint monthly patrol conducted by the Takeo Provincial Department of Environment and NatureLife Cambodia.

According to conservation officials, this marks a historic milestone as the globally threatened bird species has never previously been documented in the Boeung Prek Lapov landscape, with no recorded sightings anywhere in the surrounding area over the past decade.

The Milky Stork (Mycteria cinerea) is currently classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species due to severe habitat loss and human disturbance across its native range in Southeast Asia.

"This extraordinary sighting is a remarkably positive indicator," NatureLife Cambodia stated, noting that the presence of the rare wading bird highlights the ecological significance of the reserve's core sanctuary and reflects the success of recent wetland restoration efforts.

Conservationists and local authorities are urging the public and surrounding communities to join hands in protecting and preserving the vital natural resources of the Boeung Prek Lapov ecosystem.

By K. Rithy Reak